Kenya becomes hub for medical tourism as UK patients flock in
Kenya is emerging as a regional medical tourism hub, particularly for cardiovascular care, due to increased infrastructure investment and specialist training. Patients from countries like the UK are increasingly seeking treatment there due to lower costs and reduced bureaucracy.
Why it matters
This shift highlights the growing competitiveness of African healthcare systems and the globalization of medical services.
Yvette Kisaka, Mzee Ngunga and Anders Barasa in Mombasa on Wednesday
Kenya is increasingly attracting patients from across the world who are seeking specialised medical care, particularly for cardiovascular diseases.
This is because investments in healthcare infrastructure and specialist training have boosted the country's reputation as a regional medical hub.
Technical Lead for Sickle Cell and Cardiovascular Diseases at the Health ministry Yvette Kisaka said patients are travelling to Kenya from countries including the United Kingdom because treatment is more accessible, less bureaucratic and comparatively affordable.
"You will be surprised that people are coming from all over the world to get specialised services, especially for cardiovascular care," Kisaka said.
She spoke on the sidelines of the 43rd Kenya Cardiac Society Annual Scientific Congress in Mombasa on Wednesday.
She attributed the growing confidence in Kenya's health sector to investments in specialist doctors, modern medical equipment and improved healthcare facilities.
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