UK issues travel warning regarding 'medical tourism' in Turkey

The Foreign Office says, since 2019, 22 British nationals have died following procedures carried out in Turkey

The Foreign Office is urging ‘medical tourists’ to Turkey to research approved providers, as 22 British nationals have died in the country since January 2019 following medical tourism visits.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) said in its advisory for Turkey: “The term ‘medical tourism’ refers to those tourists who have chosen to have medical, surgical or dental treatment abroad. Cosmetic surgery, dental procedures and cardiac surgery are the most common procedures that medical tourists undertake.

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“The standard of medical facilities and available treatments vary widely around the world. As such, British nationals considering undertaking medical treatment in Turkey should carry out their own research; it is unwise to rely upon private companies that have a financial interest in arranging your medical treatment abroad. We are aware of 22 British nationals who have died in Turkey since January 2019 following medical tourism visits."

The FCDO advised that those travelling to Turkey to undertake a medical procedure should refer to the HealthTurkiye portal website for medical providers who are approved by the Ministry of Health.

Further advice and information on medical tourism is available from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC).