The HEALTH : Xtra October 2018 | Page 29

Xtra Statistics Malaysian healthcare travel industry growth rate per cent per year Total number of healthcare travellers have increased by per cent from 2011 -2017 time lapse embryoscope, high-tech sperm injection technique (Piezo-ICSI), and 3D laparoscope. “We present a seamless end-to-end ser- vice delivery which cares for couples at every point of their journey from pre-treatment to post-treatment.” “These digitally driven, high-quality roughly between RM16, 500 (USD4, 000) to RM 21, 000 (USD5, 000) which varies as per patient condition and needs.” “In addition to that, our embryologists are experienced and have received training from top medical institutions in Malaysia, United Kingdom, Australia and the United States.” STRENGTHENING MALAYSIA HEALTHCARE by MHTC to strengthen Malaysia as a fer- tility hub include targeted marketing and promotional activities with leading private healthcare providers and fertility centres in Malaysia, as well as partners in China. “Strategies executed include health talks, participating in conferences, expos and familiarisation trips, using social media such as WeChat as well as other mediums to actively engage in Corporate Social Respon- sibility (CSR) activities with hospitals and strategic partners.” In 2017, RM1.3 billion in revenue was achieved contributing RM5 billion to the nation’s GDP Half of annual visitors originate from Indonesia, followed by China*, India, Vietnam, Myanmar, Bangladesh, the Middle East, Japan, the United Kingdom and Australia. “As the fertility hub of Asia, Malaysia Healthcare has cultivated an environment to support hopeful parents.” *China was Malaysia’s second- fastest growing market in 2016 with 20 per cent growth on arrival year-on-year. “Culturally-relevant services such as Mandarin speaking doctors and hospital engagements such as partnering with Tai Orient - an IVF referral company that has 30 barrier between patients and doctors. This is so patient receives quality care and peace of mind.” “In addition, e-Visa online application system for medical travelers from China are provided for ease of access. The e-Visa allows the holder to stay up to 30 days depending on type and nationality. It is valid for three months,” Sherene said. cities in China. Tai Orient has assisted in the promotion of Malaysia as a preferred destination for fertility treatments in China. healthcare include developing strategic works with different partners along the industry value chain, from both the public and private sectors such as private hospitals, Tourism Ministry, other government agen- cies such as MATRADE, MITI, immigration, embassies, airlines, travel agents, concierge services and hotels. 27 Among these treatments are the Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) that allows comprehensive screening of 23 sets of chro- mosomes which is faster and cheaper, more accurate and that can detect mosaicism up to 99 per cent. “We are able to perform both screening and diagnosis of embryos in a single process, making it easier to find the best one to use.” Sherene Azli receiving the Highly Commended: Destination of the Year award from International Medical Travel Journal (IMTJ) managing editor, Keith Pollard. 63.3