Cancun targets Canadian medical tourism

Medical tourism in Quintana Roo holds potential for 25,000 patients annually, though there are no clearly defined packages yet. Since 2020, Canada has faced a backlog of around 3 million hip surgeries due to the pandemic, with many patients lacking insurance. This has created a significant opportunity for destinations like Cancún, where patients can find more affordable and accessible treatment options.

Andrés Jurado, head of Coparmex’s Medical Tourism Commission in Cancun, explained that many Canadians in need of orthopedic and spinal surgeries endure chronic pain and are willing to travel abroad. With U.S. surgeries costing up to $150,000, Cancun presents a more affordable option.

One example is a 56-year-old Canadian patient suffering from mobility issues due to cervical spondylosis, who faced an 18-month wait for surgery. She underwent a cervical fusion in Cancun performed by certified specialists, and her case represents one of 130,000 delayed surgeries that could be captured by Cancun, where costs are more than 80% lower.

Despite this potential, there are no well-defined products for travel wholesalers like Orbitz or itravel2000 to sell in the Canadian market, which has historically limited its reach. Alejandro González Molina, business manager at itravel2000, emphasized that medical tourism remains an untapped opportunity for Quintana Roo, even as it gains popularity among Canadians.

The most important dates when medical tourism arrives in Cancun

The medical care tourism season in Cancún typically peaks during the fall and winter months, aligning with the colder seasons in Canada, when many patients seek to escape harsh weather and combine their treatments with a warm vacation.

This period, from November to March, sees an increase in the number of medical tourists, including those undergoing orthopedic surgeries, dental work, and cosmetic procedures.

Moreover, patients often schedule their treatments to coincide with holidays or long breaks to allow for sufficient recovery time while enjoying the region’s resorts and natural beauty.