Healthcare Significance in Tourists’ Destination Choices: A Case Study of Polish Travelers

Abstract

Abstract Introduction. The purpose of the research was to analyze what role the accessibility and quality of health care plays in the country chosen as a tourist destination. It also examined where tourists get their information about health care in the country they plan to go to and whether they had to use medical services at the place of their stay. Material and methods. An analysis of source materials was performed and a diagnostic survey was conducted. Results. While the quality and availability of health care at the destination is important to some respondents, the main factors related to location, tourist attractiveness (tourist attractions, tourist infrastructure) and price still determine the choice of destination. Only 4% of the respondents identified the availability and quality of healthcare services as key factors in their decision-making process. At the same time, 38.6% of the respondents considered the quality and availability of healthcare services when choosing a tourist destination. For longer trips, the quality and availability of health care at the destination is more important when choosing a destination. Conclusions. Healthcare facilities are part of the associated infrastructure in tourism. This type of infrastructure primarily serves the local population, but also conditions the proper organization and management of tourism at the destination. In addition, in the situation related to the COVID-19 pandemic, the role of health care in tourist destinations has increased. This also requires increased efforts toward ensuring access to medical services as well as information about them in tourist destinations.