Systematic review of web sites for prospective medical tourists

Purpose - A key driver in the medical tourism phenomenon is the platform provided by the internet for gaining access to healthcare information and advertising. Given the pivotal role of web-based resources, there are important questions about their role and function including: the availability and types of information provided; information provenance and reliability; and privacy protection. This paper aims to address these questions. Design/methodology/approach - The paper provides the first systematic review of medical tourism sites, interrogating them for the range and quality of advice on seeking care. Findings - A typology of sites (industry, media, professional, and consumer sites) was identified and quantitative and qualitative assessment tools were used to explore the content of information and materials. Originality/value - In light of this review, the paper comments on the nature of medical tourism information available and the extent to which information asymmetry - rife in the market for healthcare is alleviated allowing for the better functioning of the market for medical tourism.