The Opinions and Experiences of the Turkish Diaspora in Health Tourism: The Case of Austria

Fatih SEYRAN; Şennur CANER; İshak Suat ÖVEY

doi:10.63556/jotags.2026.1901

Authors

Fatih SEYRAN
Şennur CANER
İshak Suat ÖVEY

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.63556/jotags.2026.1901

Keywords:

Health tourism, Turkish diaspora, Austria, Medical tourism, Patient experience

Abstract

This study examines the perceptions and personal experiences of the Turkish diaspora living in Austria regarding healthcare services in Türkiye, as well as the impact of these experiences on their health tourism preferences. The research was conducted using a qualitative method and a phenomenological design. Data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews with 20 participants selected via purposive sampling. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings reveal that although the Austrian healthcare system is structurally strong and based on social welfare principles, it is often criticized for access difficulties, long waiting times, and the attitudes of healthcare personnel. In contrast, Türkiye is positively evaluated for rapid service delivery, accessibility to specialist physicians, and cost advantages, while areas such as hygiene, price transparency, and institutional management are noted as needing improvement. Participants indicated a preference for services such as hair transplantation, dental treatment, and cosmetic surgery in Türkiye, with personal referrals and social networks playing a significant role in their decision-making. The study shows that members of the diaspora not only make individual healthcare decisions but may also play an influential role in expanding Türkiye’s health tourism potential. The findings aim to contribute to the development of diaspora-focused strategies in health tourism policies.

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