In the broader spectrum of promoting medical tourism in Sri Lanka, a recent project potential study by IERI indicates that promoting Sri Lanka as an International IVF Hub has a huge potential.
About IVF (In Vitro Fertilization)
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a type of assisted reproductive technology (ART) that involves fertilizing a woman’s egg with sperm in a laboratory. The fertilized egg, called an embryo, is then transferred to the woman’s uterus to grow and develop. IVF is a treatment for subfertility, which is a term used to describe difficulty in conceiving. It means that it takes longer than average to conceive, but it is still possible to get pregnant with medical assistance. IVF can be used to treat a variety of problems related to subfertility issues faced by married people.
Potential for IVF tourism
Sri Lanka has the potential to become a leading destination for IVF tourism for the following reasons:
- Strong healthcare system: Sri Lanka has a strong healthcare system with a high concentration of fertility clinics. Doctors and nurses are highly skilled and experienced in IVF procedures.
- Competitive cost advantage: IVF treatment in Sri Lanka is significantly less expensive than in other countries, such as the United States, Europe, Singapore, Thailand, and China.
- Legal support: The import and export of gametes (sperm and eggs) to and from Sri Lanka are legally permitted. Gamete donation is also permitted with fewer restrictions than in other countries such as India and Thailand.
- High-quality care: Sri Lankan fertility clinics use the most recent technologies and methods.
- Tourist destination: Sri Lanka is a beautiful country with a rich culture. It offers a variety of tourist attractions, such as beaches, nature, and a rich heritage.
- English-speaking medical professionals: Many Sri Lankan doctors and nurses are fluent in English, making it easier for patients from other countries to communicate.
- Shorter wait times: Certain medical procedures may have long wait times in a person’s home country due to high demand or limited healthcare resources. Sri Lanka can provide shorter or no wait times to attract patients who have been waiting for months or even years in some developed countries.
- Hospitality: Sri Lanka is known for its hospitality because its culture is centred around a tradition of care and empathy.
- Existing tourist infrastructure: Sri Lanka is already a popular tourist destination with a well-developed infrastructure. This includes a network of international airports, luxury hotels, and other tourist amenities.
- Proximity to Maldives: Sri Lanka is located close to the Maldives, which is a major tourist market. This makes it a convenient destination for Maldivian tourists seeking IVF treatment.
- Traditional medicine: Sri Lanka has a rich tradition of traditional medicine, such as Ayurveda and indigenous medicine. This could be a valuable asset for the medical tourism industry, as it offers a unique and holistic approach to healthcare.
- Wellness tourism: Sri Lanka is also a popular destination for wellness tourism. This could be integrated with medical tourism to create a comprehensive health and wellness experience for medical tourists.
- Strategic location: Sri Lanka is strategically located, close to major markets in India, China, and the Middle East.
- Cultural diversity: Sri Lanka is a culturally diverse country with a rich heritage. This could be a selling point for medical tourists looking for a unique and authentic experience. Sri Lanka is also a more culturally attractive destination for many patients from the Middle East, South Asia, and Europe.
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