First National Congress of Medical Tourism Launching in Cancun, Mexico, in 2012

June 19, 2011

Capitalizing on the success of Mexico as a burgeoning medical tourism destination, the First National Congress of Medical Tourism will launch in Cancun and Rivera Maya next year.

The Medical Tourism Association of Cancun and Riviera Maya, together with the Cancun Convention & Visitors Bureau, the Cancun Hotel Association and the Riviera Maya tourism board, will promote the Mexican Caribbean as the new medical tourism destination in Latin America at the World Medical Tourism Congress to be held this October in Chicago.

At the World Medical Tourism Congress, 10 hospitals will announce Cancun and Riviera Maya as the hosts of the First National Congress of Medical Tourism to be held in April of 2012, according to the Cancun CVB.

President of the Hotel Association in Cancun, Rodrigo de la Peña, and president of the Medical Travel Association, Servando Acuña Braun , announced during a recent press conference that Cancun and Riviera Maya cared for 2,200 patients last year.

Based on this result, the potential of this market segment during the next four years is estimated to be between 8 and 10 thousand patients.

There are 11 hospitals and clinics that currently treat patients as part of the medical tourism industry in these two tourist destinations, and in the next two years, an investment of 49.5 million dollars is expected, including four hospitals-clinics in the Riviera Maya, according to the Cancun CVB.

In 2009, a total of 17,840 rooms per night were occupied, and when considering pre- and post- operation stays, the total comes out to 19,624 rooms.

With an average room rate of $90, an average of $1.8 million dollars in income was generated in expenses per stay, not including food and beverages of the accompanying travelers.

The medical specialties offered are: assisted reproduction and fertilization, holistic treatments, all forms of dentistry, various forms of cosmetic surgery, minimally invasive neurosurgery, orthopedics, eye surgery, Angelology, treatment for Parkinson’s disease, anti-aging vaccine cell therapy, various forms of bariatric treatments, cardiology and oncology.

Health tourism generates $20 million annually, and this amount is expected to double in coming years according to The Economist magazine.

To promote growth in medical tourism, Medical Travel Cancun A.C. was created in November last year, with nine medical tourist facilities in Cancun and Riviera Maya under the direction of Braun.

Add new comment

Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here. New Wave Experiences Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024. Enhanced Technology Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space. Refreshing New Design & Fine Art The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights. Sustainable Spectacles Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles. The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.