Deaths of 22 patients leads FCDO to warn about Turkey's medical tourism

New advice is aimed at those seeking cosmetic, dental and other procedures in Turkey’s private clinics. 

The FCDO said: “We are aware of 22 British nationals who have died in Turkey since January 2019 following medical tourism visits.”

The FCDO said that as well as cosmetic surgery, cardiac treatment was among the most common procedures medical tourists undertake.

It added: “The standard of medical facilities and available treatments vary widely around the world. 

“As such, British nationals considering undertaking medical treatment in Turkey should carry out their own research; it is unwise to rely upon private companies that have a financial interest in arranging your medical treatment abroad.”

The FCDO advised those wanting to undertake a medical procedure in Turkey to check the HealthTurkiye portal for providers approved by the Ministry of Health. More advice is found on the TravelHealthPro website.