The development of medical tourism, as well as the major issue of the demographic problem, which is one of the most critical factors for the sustainable development of Southern Europe societies, have emerged as the 13th International Conference held in Paphos, Cyprus.

The Conference (October 10-11) was a reference point for scientific dialogue and the exchange of knowledge about the latest developments in health and medical research.

Participants from Greece emphasized Greece’s prospects to be an international center of health, well -being and longevity. It was emphasized that the utilization of medical know -how, the enhancement of infrastructure and the public and private cooperation constitute the new development framework, while highlighting the need to adopt policies that would face the demographic problem and support family and fertility.

In particular, the President of the Athens Medical Association and the Hellenic Health Tourism Council – Elitour, Dr. George Patoulis, participated in a speech dedicated to the strategic role of medical tourism as a lever for the development of the Greek economy and health extroversion.

In his speech, Mr Patoulis highlighted medical tourism as a rapidly developing industry internationally, combining two of the most important advantages of our country: high quality medical services and worldwide recognized Greek hospitality. As he pointed out, Greece, despite the fact that today it holds a small percentage of the World Health and Wellness Market, has all the guarantees, infrastructure and human resources to become a model country on the world map of medical tourism.

The president of ISA stressed that the co -operation of the public and private sector, the emergence of regional health centers, as well as the certification of services and medical infrastructure, are critical factors for the sustainable development of the sector. At the same time, he referred to the initiatives of ISA, Elitour and the World Hippocrates Institute of Doctors, to promote Greece as an international health destination, through strategic synergies with tourist agencies, academic institutions and organizations abroad. Mr Patoulis also underlined that the attraction of patients and visitors from abroad for medical, diagnostics or wellness and longevity services can act as a growth multiplier, enhancing the local economy, creating new jobs and upgrading the overall image of the country as a destination.

At the center of the demographic

During the conference, special emphasis was placed on the major issue of the demographic problem and emphasized the need to support fertility and family support policies, as well as enhancing access to reproductive health services. Indeed, the speakers were highlighted by the need to cooperate the two countries at a scientific level to promote issues regarding medically assisted reproduction.

Constantine Pantos GG In his speech, a Hellenic Society of Reproductive Medicine, Vice President Elitour, stressed that additional practices in assisted reproduction could be adopted, while the President of the Cyprus Human Reproduction Society, Dr. Lily Trokoudis referred to the significant legislative improvements made in both countries, “but there are still funds that need renewal or adjustment”.

Particular reference was made to the strategic cooperation between the Hellenic Society of Reproductive Medicine and the corresponding Cypriot company, this initiative is a model example of cross -border cooperation in the field of reproductive health, with the aim of exchanging scientific knowledge, experience and optimal practices between the two countries.

Indeed, on the sidelines of the conference there was a discussion on the twinning of the Athens Medical Association with the historic Paphos Medical Association, with the aim of bridging joint actions and addressing issues of mutual interest.

The conference was concluded with important conclusions about the future of health sciences, highlighting the need for international cooperation, innovation and exchange of know -how.