Identifying the Most Important Strategies for Development Health Tourism in Affiliated Regions of Abadan University of Medical Sciences

Abstract

Background: Since Abadan University of Medical Sciences is situated near Arabic Countries and has similar cultural and linguistic characteristics to these countries, it must improve its health infrastructures to compete in this highly profitable market. Objectives: This study aimed to identify strategies for the development of health tourism at Abadan University of Medical Sciences. Methods: This was a qualitative study carried out in 2022. Study participants included all (22 person) experts and thinkers from Abadan University of Medical Sciences. The research tool was a checklist made by the researcher. The data collection tool consisted of several questions regarding health tourism development strategies. The interviewing process continued until saturation had been reached. The content analysis method was then used to analyze the data. Results were categorized and analyzed using MAXQDA version 2021 software. Results: Abadan tourism development strategies for health tourism included five major themes such as (administrative and executive, economic, law and regulation reform, marketing, and information) with 46 sub-themes. The most important administrative and executive strategy was encouraging travel agencies that are active in attracting foreign patients. The most important economic strategies were to reduce customs tariffs on medical equipment and attract direct foreign investment in the medical sector. The most important strategies were to amend and revise the laws and regulations of the nations and peoples of the valley. Conclusions: It is recommended that policymakers and decision-makers in the health tourism industry of Abadan University of Medical Sciences take steps to strengthen and develop health tourism based on the priorities set.