Foreign clinics that once treated Russian citizens have begun turning them away more frequently. Reports surfaced from industry organizers of medical tourism about this shift, labeled by some as a notable change in patient access.
Several state and university clinics in Germany have effectively reduced engagement with Russian patients. They still accept applications, but responses are rarely issued, according to Victoria Sandaluk, CEO of the TopMedClinic service.
Among insurers, Madanes, a major health coverage provider, confirmed that many public German clinics are not serving Russian patients.
There are also challenges for Russian charities sending patients abroad for care. In 2022, Texas Children’s Hospital in the United States halted cooperation with the Khabensky Foundation on a unilateral basis. The foundation attributed the pause to financial pressures on the clinic related to sanctions that complicate payment for Russian care.
Experts interviewed for the portal noted a drop in demand for overseas medical services by Russians, citing more difficult logistics, the lack of direct European flights, and higher administrative costs as key factors driving this trend.
Historically, Switzerland, Germany, and Israel led Russian medical tourism. Today, Turkey, Israel, and Korea are increasingly prominent in this field, reflecting shifting regional dynamics and patient preferences.
Israel’s health tourism sector reports continued growth. The Israel Health Tourism Association (IMTA) notes that treatment in Israel for 2022 reached a 70% increase over 2021, with preliminary estimates suggesting around 10,000 medical travelers, predominantly from Russia, according to IMTA sources. The organization also projects a further 50% rise in Russian medical tourism by 2023 (IMTA, 2022).