PDF(Pubmed)
Abstract：
The recent exponential growth of medical tourism has illuminated the essential but relatively unexamined role of medical travel facilitators (MTFs). MTFs play a crucial role in the success of medical tourism by acting as a bridge between patients and healthcare providers. However, there is a lack of understanding and standardization of the competencies needed to excel in this profession. Therefore, this study aims to reveal and categorize the key MTF competencies through a professional competency model. The research methodology involved a combination of competency classification and thematic content analysis, leveraging insights from 30 healthcare experts. The study is processed through a computer-aided analysis to identify 14 distinct themes and 35 MTF competencies. These findings build up an innovative MTF competency model. This novel model extends the understanding of MTF competencies and is a practical tool for individuals aspiring for MTF roles, promoting their professional development. The findings also suggest a standard for delivering high-quality patient care and meeting the diverse needs of industry stakeholders. The research contributes to both theoretical advancements and practical improvements in the medical tourism industry, with an emphasis on enhancing patient satisfaction and upholding industry standards.
摘要：
医疗旅游最近的指数增长阐明了医疗旅行促进者（MTF）的基本但相对未经审查的作用。MTF通过充当患者和医疗保健提供者之间的桥梁，在医疗旅游的成功中起着至关重要的作用。然而,对在这个职业中脱颖而出所需的能力缺乏理解和标准化。因此,这项研究旨在通过专业能力模型来揭示和分类关键的MTF能力。研究方法包括能力分类和主题内容分析相结合，利用30位医疗保健专家的见解。该研究通过计算机辅助分析进行处理，以确定14个不同的主题和35个MTF能力。这些发现建立了一个创新的MTF能力模型。这种新颖的模型扩展了对MTF能力的理解，是渴望担任MTF角色的个人的实用工具，促进他们的专业发展。研究结果还提出了提供高质量患者护理和满足行业利益相关者多样化需求的标准。该研究有助于医疗旅游行业的理论进步和实践改进，强调提高患者满意度和坚持行业标准。
