An Exploratory Study of Factors Influencing Chinese Outbound Medical Tourism
Kei Wei Chia, Yi Ming Liao
Abstract
China has experienced rapid economic transitions in the past few decades, accumulating high demand for accessible, affordable, and efficient healthcare services both within the country and abroad. The purpose of this study was to explore the factors influencing Chinese mainland outbound medical tourism. Data was derived from interviews with 10 respondents. The thematic analysis qualitative method was employed to identify respondents’ views on the factors influencing Chinese outbound medical tourists to seek medical services. A total of seven themes were identified and classified under two dimensions (quality of medical service and convenience). This study provides empirical evidence regarding the factors influencing Chinese outbound medical tourists by drawing on interviews with potential Chinese medical tourists. The insights and implications derived from the results are discussed.