Systematic review of web sites for prospective medical tourists

Purpose A key driver in the medical tourism phenomenon is the platform provided by the internet for gaining access to healthcare information and advertising. Given the pivotal role of web‐based resources, there are important questions about their role and function including: the availability and types of information provided; information provenance and reliability; and privacy protection. This paper aims to address these questions. Design/methodology/approach The paper provides the first systematic review of medical tourism sites, interrogating them for the range and quality of advice on seeking care. Findings A typology of sites (industry, media, professional, and consumer sites) was identified and quantitative and qualitative assessment tools were used to explore the content of information and materials. Originality/value In light of this review, the paper comments on the nature of medical tourism information available and the extent to which information asymmetry – rife in the market for healthcare – is alleviated allowing for the better functioning of the market for medical tourism.