Moscow is preparing to become the main “health resort” for the neighboring countries and the world

Moscow is increasing the export of medical services and expects to become one of the largest centers of medical tourism in Eurasia. The main flow of foreign patients is expected from the CIS countries, the Middle East and Asia, market participants reported.

In recent years, more than 50 hospitals and clinics have been modernized in the capital, digital services and diagnostic systems using artificial intelligence have been introduced. The most popular areas among foreign patients are oncology, cardiac surgery, reproductive medicine and high-tech prosthetics.

Experts note that the cost of treatment in Moscow remains significantly lower than in a number of European and Asian clinics, with a comparable level of technology and specialist qualifications. An additional advantage is the possibility of remote consultations and preparation of a treatment plan before the patient arrives in Russia.

“Moscow has completed a large-scale re-equipment of its largest hospitals. In a number of areas, Moscow doctors demonstrate results that exceed those of many European and Asian clinics. The introduction of AI support in diagnostics allows foreign patients to receive consultations and a treatment plan even before crossing the border,” emphasizes Yulia Yurchikova, head of the company for the production, registration and launch of medical products on the market.

According to her, one of the key factors is changing the approach to service in public clinics.

“The main point is the blurring of the boundaries between “budget” and “premium” services. Many clinics today are ready to provide services on a par with private medical centers, while remaining open to work within the framework of compulsory medical insurance,” noted Yurchikova.

She emphasized that the development of medical tourism is becoming a growth driver for the capital’s healthcare.

“For the city, this means an influx of foreign exchange earnings and investments, and for patients, it means access to technologies that in other countries can cost three to five times more. Income from foreign patients makes it possible to purchase more expensive equipment and retain the best staff in public hospitals, which ultimately improves the quality of medical care,” the expert added.

It is expected that the further development of medical tourism will increase investments in the capital’s healthcare, accelerate the purchase of modern equipment and improve the quality of medical care in the compulsory medical insurance system.