Debunking Common Myths About Turkey’s Healthcare System

Turkey has gained recognition as a leading destination for medical tourism, offering high-quality healthcare services at affordable prices. However, several misconceptions persist about the country’s healthcare system.

Let’s debunk some of these myths to provide a clearer understanding of healthcare in Turkey.

Myth 1: “Healthcare in Turkey is Substandard Compared to Western Countries.”

Reality: Turkey’s healthcare system has made significant advancements in recent years, with modern facilities and highly trained medical professionals, many of whom have been trained in the UK and USA. Some hospitals in Turkey are accredited by international bodies, ensuring adherence to global standards of care.

Myth 2: “Medical Equipment and Technology in Turkey are Outdated.”

Reality: Turkish hospitals invest in state-of-the-art medical equipment and technology. They utilise advanced imaging systems, robotic surgery platforms, and innovative treatments, comparable to leading healthcare facilities worldwide. Significant amounts have been spent on building top quality hospitals in Turkey. These facilities would compare very favourably to any private or NHS hospital in the UK.

Myth 3: “Doctors in Turkey Lack Proper Qualifications and Training.”

Reality: Turkish doctors undergo rigorous training and education, often receiving qualifications from esteemed institutions globally. About 15,000 consultant doctors who work in Turkey studied in the UK or USA. Many physicians in Turkey are internationally recognised for their expertise and specialisation in various medical fields.

Myth 4: “There Are Long Wait Times for Medical Procedures in Turkey.”

Reality: Unlike in some countries with public healthcare systems, Turkey offers minimal to no wait times for consultations, diagnostics, and surgeries in private hospitals catering to medical tourists. This efficiency ensures timely access to healthcare services; and these hospitals are also able to take emergency referrals from overseas i.e. when the procedure must take place in the next day or two.

Myth 5: “Language Barriers Pose Challenges for International Patients.”

Reality: English is widely spoken in Turkish hospitals, especially in departments catering to medical tourists. Hospitals almost always provide interpreter services to ensure effective communication with patients from diverse backgrounds. International Patient Services Departments are a common feature.

Myth 6: “Healthcare Costs in Turkey Are Unpredictable and Expensive.”

Reality: Medical treatments in Turkey are significantly more affordable compared to many Western countries. The transparent pricing structure allows patients to budget effectively for their healthcare expenses without unexpected costs; and the very favourable exchange rate (i.e. weak Turkish Lira) also benefits people from overseas.

Myth 7: “Turkey Lacks Hygiene and Cleanliness Standards in Healthcare Facilities.”

Reality: Turkish hospitals adhere to strict hygiene protocols and cleanliness standards. Our CEO has visited a number of these hospitals, and he can confirm that patient safety and infection control measures are a priority, so as to maintain a safe and sanitary environment for treatment.

Myth 8: “Traveling to Turkey for Medical Treatment Is Unsafe.”

Reality: Turkey is a safe destination for medical tourists, with major cities like Istanbul and Ankara offering a secure environment. Turkish hospitals, clinics and wellness centres cater to circa 750,000 international patients every year! This number of people wouldn’t come to Turkey for medical treatment if it was unsafe.

Myth 9: “Turkish Healthcare Only Focuses on Cosmetic Procedures.”

Reality: While Turkey is renowned for cosmetic surgery, it offers a very wide range of medical specialties, including cardiology, orthopaedics, oncology, and fertility treatments. Patients can access comprehensive healthcare services based on their needs.

Myth 10: “Health Insurance Doesn’t Cover Medical Treatments in Turkey.”

Reality: Many international health insurance policies cover medical treatments in Turkey, depending on the terms of the policy. Patients should check with their insurance providers to understand coverage options for treatment abroad.

Turkey’s healthcare system is a reputable choice for medical tourists seeking quality care at affordable prices. By dispelling these myths, individuals can make informed decisions about accessing healthcare services in Turkey and benefit from its excellent medical facilities and skilled professionals.

We wouldn’t be in the business of helping to send patients to Turkey for medical treatment, some of which will be complicated procedures, if we had concerns about Turkish medical standards.