North America Medical Tourism Market

North America Medical Tourism Market Size

The North American medical tourism market size was valued at USD 11.78 billion in 2024 and is estimated to reach USD 57.22 billion by 2033 from USD 14.04 billion in 2025, registering a CAGR of 19.2% from 2025 to 2033.

Medical tourism is not merely about cost savings but also encompasses seeking high-quality care, shorter wait times, and accessing treatments that may be unavailable or restricted in one’s home country. In recent years, this industry has gained significant traction due to advancements in healthcare infrastructure, growing patient awareness, and an increasing emphasis on personalized medicine. The United States, Canada, and Mexico are pivotal players in shaping the region's medical tourism landscape. For instance, Mexico has become a hotspot for Americans seeking affordable dental and cosmetic procedures, while Canadian patients often travel south to circumvent long wait times for elective surgeries.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 750,000 U.S. residents travel abroad annually for medical care with the demand for cross-border healthcare solutions. Meanwhile, according to a report by the Conference Board of Canada, approximately 63,000 Canadians sought non-emergency medical treatments outside the country in 2019, driven largely by delays in domestic healthcare systems. Furthermore, data from the International Trade Administration reveals that wellness tourism is a closely related segment that iss valued at $4.5 trillion globally by reflecting the integration of health-focused travel experiences into broader consumer trends.

MARKET DRIVERS

High-Quality Healthcare Infrastructure and Specialized Treatments

North America's medical tourism market is significantly driven by its robust healthcare infrastructure and access to cutting-edge treatments. The United States, in particular, is renowned for its advanced medical technology and specialized care, attracting patients from across the globe. According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, the country hosts over 1.4 million foreign patients annually, many of whom seek treatments such as cancer therapy, organ transplants, and rare disease management. Canada also contributes to this trend with its reputation for excellence in cardiac and orthopedic surgeries, as highlighted by the Canadian Institute for Health Information. Furthermore, Mexico has positioned itself as a leader in bariatric surgery, with the Mexican Ministry of Health reporting that the country performs over 20,000 weight-loss procedures annually, appealing primarily to North American travelers seeking affordable yet high-quality options.

Cost Disparities and Insurance Limitations

The rising cost of healthcare in the United States serves as another major driver for medical tourism within North America. A report by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) reveals that U.S. healthcare spending reached $4.3 trillion in 2021 by averaging over $12,900 per person. This financial burden pushes many uninsured or underinsured individuals to explore cost-effective alternatives abroad. Similarly, the Fraser Institute notes that Canadians face an average wait time of 25.6 weeks for medically necessary procedures, prompting some to seek faster treatment options in the U.S. or Mexico. For instance, dental procedures in Mexico can cost 50-70% less than in the U.S., according to the U.S. International Trade Commission.

MARKET RESTRAINTS

Stringent Cross-Border Regulations and Visa Challenges

One significant restraint in the North American medical tourism market is the complexity of cross-border regulations and visa requirements, which can deter potential medical travelers. According to the U.S. Department of State, visa approval processes often involve extensive documentation, including proof of financial stability and intent to return to one’s home country, which can be burdensome for patients seeking urgent care. As per Canada’s Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, medical visas are subject to strict eligibility criteria, including assessments of the applicant's health condition and potential public health risks. These barriers are further compounded by post-pandemic travel restrictions, as noted by the World Health Organization, which reported a 70% decline in international travel during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Such regulatory hurdles limit accessibility and create uncertainty for patients considering medical tourism.

Healthcare Quality Disparities and Safety Concerns

Another major restraint is the perception of inconsistent healthcare quality and safety standards across destinations, which can undermine patient confidence. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that medical tourists may face risks such as infections, inadequate follow-up care, or complications from unregulated facilities. For example, the CDC reports that surgical site infections occur in approximately 2-5% of procedures performed in low-regulation environments is raising concerns about outcomes abroad. According to the Canadian Patient Safety Institute, patients traveling for care often lack access to comprehensive post-operative support, leading to higher readmission rates. According to a study by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, counterfeit or substandard medical products are more prevalent in less-regulated markets that is posing additional risks. These factors contribute to hesitancy among patients when considering treatments in unfamiliar healthcare systems.

MARKET OPPORTUNITIES

Integration of Telemedicine and Virtual Consultations

The growing adoption of telemedicine presents a transformative opportunity for the North American medical tourism market by enhancing accessibility and pre-travel consultations. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports that telehealth usage surged by over 63% in 2021 by enabling patients to connect with specialists across borders before committing to travel. This trend is particularly beneficial for Canadians, as the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission notes that rural and remote populations often face limited access to specialized care. The medical tourists can receive preliminary diagnoses, treatment plans, and cost estimates by reducing uncertainties. According to the Mexico’s Ministry of Health, telemedicine has facilitated cross-border collaborations by allowing U.S. physicians to guide post-operative care for patients returning from treatments abroad. This integration not only builds trust but also expands the reach of medical tourism services.

Rising Demand for Wellness and Preventive Care Tourism

The increasing focus on wellness and preventive care offers another significant opportunity for growth in the North American medical tourism sector. The Global Wellness Institute states that wellness tourism accounted for $720 billion in revenue globally in 2020, with North America being a key contributor. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, chronic diseases, which are preventable through lifestyle changes that account for nearly 60% of deaths in the region. Mexico has capitalized on this trend by offering wellness retreats and alternative therapies, attracting over 1 million wellness tourists annually, according to the Mexican Tourism Board. Similarly, Canada’s emphasis on natural therapies and spa treatments has positioned it as a destination for stress management and rejuvenation. This shift towards proactive health management aligns seamlessly with the expanding scope of medical tourism.

MARKET CHALLENGES

Legal and Ethical Concerns Surrounding Medical Liability

A significant challenge in the North American medical tourism market is the lack of standardized legal frameworks for addressing medical malpractice and liability issues across borders. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, patients traveling abroad for treatment often face difficulties in seeking recourse or compensation in cases of adverse outcomes, as foreign jurisdictions may not recognize U.S. legal claims. According to the Canadian Medical Protective Association, Canadian patients who undergo procedures internationally are not covered by domestic malpractice laws, leaving them vulnerable to unregulated practices. According to the World Health Organization, nearly 10% of medical tourists report complications, yet less than half pursue legal action due to jurisdictional complexities. These gaps in accountability undermine trust and deter potential medical travelers from pursuing cross-border care.

Cultural and Language Barriers Impacting Patient Experience

Cultural and language barriers pose another critical challenge for the North American medical tourism market by affecting communication and patient satisfaction. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, over 67 million Americans speak a language other than English at home with the importance of clear communication in healthcare settings. However, Mexico’s National Institute of Statistics and Geography notes that many medical facilities catering to international patients struggle with providing consistent translation services is leading to misunderstandings about treatment plans or post-operative care. Additionally, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research emphasize that cultural differences in medical practices can create discomfort or mistrust among patients. For instance, a study revealed that nearly 30% of medical tourists felt their cultural preferences were not adequately respected during their treatment journey with the need for culturally sensitive care to enhance patient confidence and outcomes.

SEGMENTAL ANALYSIS

By Treatment Type Insights

The cosmetic treatment dominated the North American medical tourism market by accounting for 35.4% of the total share in 2024 owing to the high cost of cosmetic procedures in the U.S., with breast augmentation averaging $4,500 domestically but costing significantly less in Mexico. The U.S. International Trade Administration, over 1.8 million cosmetic surgeries and 16 million minimally invasive procedures were performed in 2022 owing to the increasing societal emphasis on aesthetics. Its importance lies in its accessibility and affordability abroad by enabling patients to achieve desired outcomes without financial strain with a cornerstone of the region's medical tourism industry.

The infertility treatment is expected to showcase a significant CAGR of 12.5% from 2025 to 2033. The rising infertility rates are one of the major factors driving the growth of the segment. According to the Canadian Fertility and Andrology Society, IVF treatments in Canada can cost up to $15,000 per cycle, while cross-border options in Mexico offer similar services at nearly half the price. Advances in reproductive technologies, such as pre-implantation genetic testing, further fuel growth. Additionally, societal shifts toward delayed parenthood increase reliance on assisted reproductive techniques. This segment’s rapid expansion underscores its critical role in addressing unmet needs by positioning it as a pivotal driver of future growth in the medical tourism market.

By Age Group Insights

The over-55 age group segment was the largest and held 40.3% of the North American medical tourism market share in 2024. The high prevalence of chronic conditions and age-related ailments is ascribed to fuel the growth of the market. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,  85% of adults aged 65+ have at least one chronic condition. Procedures like joint replacements and cardiac surgeries are particularly sought after. The importance of this segment lies in its financial capacity and insurance coverage by enabling access to cross-border care with the need for specialized geriatric services tailored to this demographic.

The 26-35 age group segment is swiftly emerging with an anticipated CAGR of 12.5% during the forecast period. This rapid growth is fueled by increasing demand for elective procedures such as cosmetic surgeries, fertility treatments, and dental care. According to the U.S. International Trade Administration, cosmetic procedures abroad can cost 40-60% less than domestic options by attracting younger cost-conscious patients. Additionally, Mexico’s Ministry of Health reports a 30% annual increase in fertility treatments among international patients aged 26-35. This segment's importance lies in its long-term potential, as younger patients are more likely to return for follow-up care or recommend services by driving sustained market expansion.

By Tourist Type Insights

The domestic tourists segment dominated the North American medical tourism market by accounting for 61.2% of share in 2024. This segment thrives due to the convenience of traveling within the same country, familiarity with healthcare systems, and reduced logistical challenges. For instance, Canadians often travel interprovincially to access specialized treatments unavailable locally with a trend supported by Statistics Canada. Domestic medical tourism is vital as it addresses regional disparities in healthcare access while boosting local economies.

The international tourists represent the fastest-growing segment in the North American medical tourism market, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.3% from 2022 to 2030, according to the International Trade Administration. This rapid growth is fueled by factors such as rising healthcare costs in the United States and prolonged wait times in Canada, as highlighted by the Fraser Institute. Mexico has emerged as a key destination, attracting over 1.2 million American medical tourists annually for affordable procedures like dental care and cosmetic surgeries, per Mexico’s Ministry of Health. The increasing adoption of telemedicine and streamlined visa processes further accelerates this trend. The segment's growth highlights the need for standardized cross-border healthcare regulations to ensure safety and quality for international patients.

By Service Provider Insights

Domestic tourists dominate the North American medical tourism market, accounting for approximately 65% of the total market share, as reported by the U.S. Department of Commerce. This segment thrives due to the convenience of traveling within the same country, familiarity with healthcare systems, and reduced logistical challenges. For instance, Canadians often travel interprovincially to access specialized treatments unavailable locally, a trend supported by Statistics Canada. Domestic medical tourism is vital as it addresses regional disparities in healthcare access while boosting local economies. Its dominance underscores the importance of improving intra-country healthcare infrastructure to meet rising patient demands effectively.

International tourists represent the fastest-growing segment in the North American medical tourism market, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.3% from 2022 to 2030, according to the International Trade Administration. This rapid growth is fueled by factors such as rising healthcare costs in the United States and prolonged wait times in Canada, as highlighted by the Fraser Institute. Mexico has emerged as a key destination, attracting over 1.2 million American medical tourists annually for affordable procedures like dental care and cosmetic surgeries, per Mexico’s Ministry of Health. The increasing adoption of telemedicine and streamlined visa processes further accelerates this trend. The segment's growth highlights the need for standardized cross-border healthcare regulations to ensure safety and quality for international patients.

By Traveler Type Insights

The Independent Traveler segment dominates the North American medical tourism market, holding approximately 60% of the market share, as reported by the U.S. International Trade Administration. This dominance is attributed to the flexibility and cost savings associated with self-planned medical trips. Independent travelers often seek specialized treatments unavailable locally or procedures at lower costs, such as dental care in Mexico, which the Mexican Ministry of Tourism estimates attracts over 1 million Americans annually. The ability to customize travel plans and avoid group constraints appeals to tech-savvy patients leveraging online resources. This segment's importance lies in its contribution to cross-border healthcare accessibility and its role in driving direct economic benefits to destination countries.

The Package Traveler segment is the fastest-growing in the North American medical tourism market, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.5% from 2020 to 2025, according to the Canadian Tourism Commission. This growth is fueled by increasing partnerships between healthcare providers and travel agencies, offering all-inclusive packages that combine surgery, accommodation, and recovery services. The U.S. Department of Commerce highlights that such packages reduce logistical stress for patients, particularly those seeking elective procedures like cosmetic surgeries, which account for 25% of medical tourism cases. Additionally, wellness-focused packages, endorsed by the Global Wellness Institute, are gaining traction, appealing to health-conscious travelers. The segment's rapid expansion underscores its role in simplifying medical travel while boosting revenue streams for service providers and destinations alike.

REGIONAL ANALYSIS

The United States dominates the North American medical tourism market, accounting for approximately 70% of the regional share, as per the U.S. Department of Commerce. Its leadership stems from advanced healthcare infrastructure, cutting-edge treatments, and a high concentration of accredited facilities. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that over 750,000 U.S. residents travel abroad annually for affordable care, while inbound medical tourists seek specialized treatments like cancer therapy and organ transplants. With the U.S. spending $4.3 trillion on healthcare in 2021, its prominence highlights the integration of medical tourism into broader healthcare ecosystems, ensuring global accessibility to innovative procedures.

Canada is the fastest-growing market in North American medical tourism, with a projected CAGR of 7.2% from 2020 to 2025, according to the Canadian Institute for Health Information. This growth is driven by Canadians traveling abroad to bypass long wait times, which the Fraser Institute reports average 25.6 weeks for necessary procedures. Elective surgeries and dental care in the U.S. or Mexico are popular options. Additionally, Canada’s focus on wellness tourism, valued at $4.5 trillion globally by the Global Wellness Institute, attracts international patients. The country’s emphasis on quality care and cross-border collaborations underscores its rising importance in the medical tourism landscape.

KEY MARKET PLAYERS AND COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Galenia Hospital, Medic Sur, Hospital San José, Centro Médico ABC, Star Médica, Ángeles en Línea S.A. de C.V., Hospital de la Familia, Amerimed Hospitals, Hospital CIMA Hermosillo, and Keralty S.A.S. are some of the key market players in the North America medical tourism market.

The North American medical tourism market is characterized by intense competition, driven by the region's diverse healthcare offerings and the increasing demand for cost-effective, high-quality medical services. The United States, Canada, and Mexico are the primary contributors to this competitive landscape, each leveraging its unique strengths to attract medical tourists. U.S. hospitals emphasize cutting-edge technology and specialized treatments, drawing patients from across the globe for procedures like organ transplants and cancer therapies. Meanwhile, Mexico has positioned itself as a hub for affordable yet high-quality dental, cosmetic, and bariatric surgeries, capitalizing on its proximity to the U.S. and significantly lower treatment costs. Canada, with its reputation for excellence in cardiac and orthopedic care, appeals to patients seeking shorter wait times for elective procedures.

The competitive dynamics are further intensified by the growing number of Joint Commission International (JCI)-accredited facilities across the region, which assure patients of standardized care. Hospitals and clinics adopt aggressive marketing strategies, including partnerships with travel agencies, insurance providers, and wellness centers, to offer all-inclusive packages that simplify the medical travel experience. Additionally, advancements in telemedicine have enabled institutions to engage with international patients virtually, expanding their reach. Despite these opportunities, competition is tempered by challenges such as stringent visa regulations, concerns over healthcare quality disparities, and legal complexities surrounding cross-border treatments. Overall, the interplay of innovation, affordability, and accessibility continues to shape a dynamic and highly contested medical tourism market in North America.

Top Players in the market

Galenia Hospital

Galenia Hospital, located in Cancun, Mexico, is a prominent player in the North American medical tourism market, known for its advanced medical infrastructure and expertise in specialized fields such as orthopedics, cardiology, and oncology. Accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI), it has established itself as a trusted destination for international patients, particularly from the U.S. and Canada. The hospital’s patient-centric approach, bilingual staff, and emphasis on personalized care make it a preferred choice for travelers seeking high-quality yet affordable treatments. By integrating cutting-edge technology with a focus on patient satisfaction, Galenia Hospital has significantly contributed to positioning Mexico as a leading hub for medical tourism in North America.

Medica Sur

Medica Sur, based in Mexico City, is a key contributor to the medical tourism industry, renowned for its excellence in complex procedures such as organ transplants, bariatric surgeries, and advanced oncology treatments. With JCI accreditation and strong partnerships with global health organizations, Mdica Sur has built a reputation for delivering world-class healthcare services. Its commitment to research and collaboration with institutions in the U.S. enhances its credibility and attracts a steady flow of international patients. The hospital’s comprehensive post-operative care and wellness programs cater to the growing demand for integrated healthcare solutions, solidifying its role as a leader in cross-border medical services and contributing to Mexico’s prominence in the global medical tourism landscape.

Hospital San José

Hospital San José, part of the Christus Muguerza network in Monterrey, Mexico, is a major player in the North American medical tourism sector, specializing in cardiovascular and neurosurgical procedures. Accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI) and recognized by the Global Healthcare Accreditation Program, it is a trusted destination for patients seeking advanced surgical interventions. Its strategic location and affiliations with U.S. insurers enhance accessibility for American patients. The hospital’s adoption of innovative technologies, such as robotic surgery systems, and its dedication to providing cost-effective, high-quality care have strengthened its reputation. Hospital San José plays a vital role in promoting Mexico as a premier destination for medical tourists while addressing the growing demand for specialized healthcare services across North America.

Top strategies used by the key market participants

Key players in the North American medical tourism market employ a variety of strategic initiatives to strengthen their position and enhance competitiveness. One prominent strategy is the attainment of international accreditations, such as those from the Joint Commission International (JCI), which assures patients of high-quality care and compliance with global standards. Hospitals like Galenia and Medic Sur leverage these certifications to build trust among international patients and differentiate themselves in a crowded market.

Another critical approach is the establishment of partnerships with travel agencies, insurance providers, and wellness centers to offer all-inclusive packages that combine treatment, accommodation, and recovery services. These collaborations simplify logistics for patients and make medical travel more appealing. Additionally, many institutions invest in cutting-edge technology, such as robotic surgery systems and telemedicine platforms, to offer advanced treatments and attract tech-savvy patients.

Marketing strategies also play a vital role, with hospitals emphasizing multilingual staff, personalized patient care, and virtual consultations to cater to diverse audiences. By participating in international health expos and leveraging digital marketing, these players expand their reach and visibility. Finally, community engagement and post-operative follow-up programs ensure patient satisfaction, fostering loyalty and encouraging word-of-mouth referrals, which are invaluable for sustaining long-term growth in the competitive medical tourism landscape.

RECENT MARKET DEVELOPMENTS

• In October 2024, Hospital Galenia launched a comprehensive medical tourism program offering advanced medical technology and personalized care to international patients. This initiative aims to enhance patient experience and attract more North American medical tourists.
• In 2024, Médica Sur received certification from the Mexican Council of Medical Tourism for healthcare excellence and quality services. This recognition is expected to boost the hospital’s reputation and appeal to international patients.
• In 2024, Médica Sur expanded its international patient services by offering streamlined scheduling for doctor visits, surgical procedures, and diagnostic testing. This move is designed to improve accessibility and convenience for medical tourists.
• In 2024, Centro Médico ABC enhanced its facilities at the Santa Fe and Observatorio campuses to provide high-quality services across more than 70 medical specialties. This expansion is intended to cater to a growing number of international patients seeking specialized care.
• In 2024, Centro Médico ABC developed a comprehensive guide for international patients, detailing available services and facilities. This initiative aims to improve patient experience and facilitate medical travel arrangements.
• In 2024, Hospital Real San José achieved accreditation from the Consejo de Salubridad General, affirming its commitment to high-quality medical services. This accreditation is expected to enhance trust among international patients.
• In January 2025, AngelesHealth expanded its medical tourism network to include multiple hospitals and surgical suites, supported by a team of bilingual doctors and specialists. This expansion is aimed at strengthening its position as a leading provider of medical tourism services.
• In 2024, AngelesHealth highlighted its proximity to the U.S. border, being located just 20 minutes from San Diego, as a key advantage for North American patients seeking affordable healthcare. This strategic marketing effort is expected to increase patient inflow.
• In 2024, AngelesHealth emphasized over 30 years of experience in medical tourism, showcasing its long-standing commitment to high-quality patient care. This positioning aims to build trust and attract more medical tourists.
• In September 2024, Hospital Galenia published information highlighting the benefits of medical tourism. This effort seeks to educate and attract international patients by showcasing the advantages of seeking medical care in Mexico.

MARKET SEGMENTATION

This research report on the North American medical tourism market has been segmented and sub-segmented into the following categories

By Treatment Type

• Cardiovascular Treatment
• Orthopedic Treatment
• Fertility Treatment
• Neurological Treatment
• Dental Treatment
• Cancer Treatment
• Cosmetic Treatment
• Others

By Age Group

• Less than 15 years
• 15 - 25 years
• 26 - 35 years
• 36 - 45 years
• 46 - 55 years
• Over 55 years

By Service Provider

• Public Provider
• Private Provider

By Traveler Type

• Independent Traveler
• Tour Group
• Package Traveler

By Country

• The U.S.
• Canada
• Rest of North America