Iran’s Medical Tourism Shines: Hamedan Sets the Standard for Exceptional Healthcare Hosting

TEHRAN– The recent success of the third international medical tourism conference organized by the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) member countries in Hamedan has firmly established Iran’s presence in the medical tourism sector. This event, also known as the Health Tourism Confobition, highlighted the potential of Hamedan province in the realm of medical tourism, showcasing its treatment capabilities and fostering regional collaborations.

Deputy Governor-General of Hamedan, Mojtaba Hosseini, expressed gratitude towards media members, local governors, and the public for their support during the conference. He stated, “During the days when the country was engaged in a 12-day combined war imposed by Israel, our nation left a successful record in simultaneously managing the economic front and hosting an international event. This support deserves special appreciation.”

Hosseini emphasized that medical tourism is one of the strategic focuses of ECO, and Hamedan was chosen to host this significant event due to various compelling factors:

• Historical and cultural significance
• Robust medical infrastructure
• Specialized physicians
• Favorable geopolitical situation
• Convenient air access

During the conference, attendees had the opportunity to learn about Hamedan’s medical, tourism, and economic potentials. The event featured both scientific and exhibition segments. The official inauguration was attended by ECO Secretary General Assad Majid Khan and included specialized panels that discussed:

• The role of ECO member states in medical tourism
• The impact of technology and artificial intelligence
• Health startups
• Regional situation analysis
• Introduction of Hamedan as a new medical tourism destination

In addition to the panels, side programs were organized that included visits to international patient departments (IPDs) in the province, showcasing medical capacities and identifying infrastructural potentials relevant to medical tourism.

Following the conference, Hosseini mentioned key outcomes from the final statement, which included:

1. Formation of a joint medical tourism committee based in Hamedan
2. Creation of a regional digital platform
3. Support for research projects
4. Expansion of medical knowledge exchange
5. Promotion of educational cooperation
6. Development of hydrotherapy initiatives

Hosseini pointed out that medical tourism not only generates significant income but also promotes economic development. He noted, “Holding this event was an effective step towards establishing the health brand of Iran and Hamedan at the regional level.” He extended his gratitude to all participating institutions, particularly the University of Medical Sciences, the General Directorate of Hamedan Cultural Heritage Department, the Municipality, the Management and Planning Organization, and the governorates.

The third international medical tourism confobition took place from June 11-13 in Hamedan, a city rich in history and medical facilities. Hamedan is also known as the birthplace of Avicenna, the renowned Persian physician and philosopher of the medieval Islamic world.

In recent years, Iran has emerged as a prominent destination for health tourism, attracting individuals from various regions seeking high-quality healthcare services at competitive prices. The country’s medical tourism sector has seen substantial growth due to its:

• Advanced medical facilities
• Skilled healthcare professionals
• Cost-effective treatments

Major cities like Tehran, Shiraz, and Isfahan are equipped with internationally accredited medical facilities offering a wide range of treatments and procedures. Data reveals that patients from neighboring countries such as Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Oman, Bahrain, Armenia, and Tajikistan constitute a significant portion of medical tourists visiting Iran.

Experts highlight that medical tourism in Iran presents a mutually beneficial opportunity for both the country and foreign patients. Patients gain access to affordable, high-quality treatment services, while Iran benefits from increased foreign currency inflow. The Islamic Republic has successfully branded itself as an affordable destination for health and medical tourism.

Key factors that add to Iran’s appeal in medical tourism include:

• Highly credible surgeons and physicians
• Cutting-edge medical technology
• Diverse medical specializations
• Affordable healthcare procedures
• Warm and hospitable people

In conclusion, Hamedan’s hosting of the third international medical tourism confobition has not only showcased the province’s capabilities but also solidified Iran’s status as a leading destination in the medical tourism industry.