Stakeholders call for unified medical tourism app as Jordan prepares for 230,000 visitors

Stakeholders call for unified medical tourism app as Jordan prepares for 230,000 visitors

AMMAN — The Jordan Hotel Association (JHA) is gearing up to welcome a projected total of 230,000 medical tourists this year, over 100 per cent increase from 2022. Due to this increase, travel agents specialised in medical tourism are urging stakeholders to create a unified application that allows for seamless coordination from all parties.

Tariq, a medical tourism agent, is redirecting all his reservations and travel packages to neighbouring countries due to the challenges faced in Jordan.

Both Tariq and his clients are frustrated with long wait times at the borders, a lack of cooperation, overpriced procedures and the absence of a single department in charge of medical tourism.

“Jordan has some of the best medical facilities and medical staff in the region, and easing procedures and cooperating with travel agents can bring benefits to both patients and the economy,” Tariq, who prefers to go by a single name, told The Jordan Times.

Tariq added that for medical tourism to grow there must first be special lanes at the airport and a medical doctor who can understand each case.

“Patients understand the importance of security check-ups and airport safety. However, they come sick, exhausted and usually carrying medications and medical equipment. They can’t handle long