Modelling the factors affecting Nigerian medical tourism sector using an interpretive structural modelling approach

Abstract

ABSTRACT Healthcare system of Nigeria is still considered to be in its developing stage when compared to other countries like USA and UK. Nigeria can perform exceptionally well in its healthcare delivery system if some factors are put into place. The aim of this paper is to identify the factors affecting Nigerian medical tourism sector. With respect to this, 15 variables were identified from literature reviews and brainstorming sections among experts in healthcare executives which, in turn, gave rise to the development of a structural model. More appropriate understanding of these factors/variables and their various contextual relationship will help to improve Nigerian medical tourism sector. The contextual relationship between these variables was identified and Interpretation Structure Modelling (interpretive modelling technique) was used. Furthermore, the MICMAC analysis was also employed in the classification of the 15 variables based on their individual driving power and dependence power in order to classify the factor affecting Nigerian medical tourism sector. The model factors affecting medical tourism in this study will contribute to improving healthcare management practice in other countries, which are currently having issues concerning high migration of patients for medical tourism. When these factors are properly implemented, they will give rise to best practices and ensure excellent healthcare delivery.