Saturday, January 31, 2015

By Ines Flores


Escalating prices of medical procedures have increased the desire among patients to find alternatives. This offers a perfect opportunity for any entrepreneur to develop a profitable medical tourism business model that links the patients to these alternatives and offers something more. It combines the skills and resources of medics and tour operators with the aim of meeting both needs. The basic aim is to locate a facility that offers the best health services and vacation opportunities.

Business analysts indicate that the number of medi-tourists is rising every year. The options range from seeking treatment abroad to fly-procedure packages. When developing your plan, identify the area you would like to specialize and do your homework. The homework includes identifying what the competition is offering and how it can be made better, more convenient and cheaper.

Specialization is considered the best approach in entrepreneurship. This trend has been observed even at international level where nations promote a particular sector. India, for example has specialized in heart surgery while Philippines and Hungary are known for dental procedures. Turkey is a rising eye surgery power house with Spain taking the lead in neurosurgery. With this in mind, know the destinations that will give you better returns.

Health-care providers are central during the design of related tourism packages. You are required to create relationships with doctor and other professionals locally and abroad. They will facilitate your clients and ensure that health-care provision rules are not breached. Their guidance is required especially when making logistical plans for the patients.

Tourism and medical agencies might not have defined licenses and accreditation, but just like other businesses you require permits and licenses to operate. Some are issued by municipalities while others are by the state and federal institutions. Consider certifications and accreditation from institutions that give credibility to your operations. This places you a notch higher than your competition by giving you a professional tag.

The competitiveness of your business model will determine your success. When developing your package, bear in mind what your competition is offering. Do not compromise standards and quality especially on accommodation and travel in an effort to offer a cheaper package. Satisfied customers will bring you more clients and return business.

Commission distribution depends on your negotiations with stakeholder facilitating your tourists. The stakeholders range from resorts to spas, hotel and airlines. There is a percentage that comes from the facility offering treatment. It takes time to realize profits which calls for patience.

The tourism element in your business must never be forgotten. It is a huge responsibility to ensure that patients receive the best care at their destination. Depending on their condition, organize the tour such that they reap double benefits by the time they return.

The responsibility of the agency extends to ensuring that all travel documents, including visas and passports, are in order. Make recommendations on exciting activities, accommodation and attractions and allow the clients to choose. Consider their condition and their budget as well. Explain existing travel advisories from authorities and expound on their effect on the planned trip. Expanding your destination range increases the flow of clients and prevents disappointment.




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