Safe Choice Guide

What is the T.R. Ministry of Health Authorization Certificate?

This certificate is a basic license indicating that an institution meets the minimum legal requirements (facility, personnel, infrastructure, etc.) to operate in the field of health tourism in Turkey. All institutions in our guide possess this certificate, which is a safe starting point.

JCI (Joint Commission International) Accreditation: The Gold Standard of Clinical Quality

JCI is a global leader in patient safety and quality of care. A JCI-accredited hospital has proven that it meets over 1,300 measurable elements, including patient safety goals, infection control, surgical safety, and medication management. This is the strongest assurance that you will receive care at the highest clinical standards, where the risk of medical errors and complications is minimized.

Temos International Accreditation: The International Patient Experience Specialist

Germany-based Temos specifically focuses on the entire journey of the medical tourist. It audits not only clinical quality but also service quality, such as pre-travel communication, cultural sensitivity, transparency in pricing, and post-operative follow-up. A Temos accreditation is an indicator that an institution values you not just as a patient, but also as a guest.

Be Realistic: Every Surgery Carries Risks

Unsuccessful operations, infections, and other adverse outcomes can occur in any country. Governments of countries like the UK, US, and Ireland officially warn their citizens to consult their own doctors and conduct comprehensive research before traveling to Turkey. This highlights the seriousness of the matter and the importance of personal responsibility.

How to Spot "Underground" and Fake Clinics

• Suspiciously Low Prices: Prices well below the market average are often a sign that corners are being cut on material quality, hygiene, or staff competence.
• Fake Reviews and Aggressive Marketing: Be skeptical of reviews that are only 5-star, generic, and lack detail. "Consultants" who apply high-pressure sales tactics via WhatsApp with constant discounts and campaigns are a warning sign.
• Inability to Meet the Surgeon: Before deciding on your surgery, insist on a video consultation with the surgeon who will perform the operation. Avoid institutions that only let you speak with consultants and prevent direct access to the surgeon.
• Unlicensed Facilities: Operations must only be performed in fully-equipped hospitals or medical centers. Surgical procedures performed in offices, apartments, or beauty salons are illegal and extremely dangerous.

Your Basic Patient Rights in Turkey

As a patient in Turkey, you have fundamental rights, including the right to receive fair services, to be informed, to not have any intervention without your consent, to privacy, and to refuse treatment. These rights apply to all patients, regardless of their nationality.

What to Do in Case of Medical Malpractice

When a problem arises, it's important to distinguish between an unavoidable "complication" and a preventable "error." You have the right to file a lawsuit in Turkey for medical malpractice. However, this process can be complex, lengthy, and costly. Therefore, it is crucial to get support from a Turkish lawyer specializing in medical law. One of the most important pieces of evidence in a lawsuit is your medical records; remember that you have the right to request and receive all your documents in full.

Standard Travel Insurance Is Not Enough

Standard travel insurance policies or your health insurance from your home country generally do not cover complications arising from planned cosmetic or elective surgeries abroad. This means that if things go wrong, you will be responsible for all additional treatment and expenses.

What is Medical Tourism Complication Insurance?

This is a special type of insurance designed specifically to fill this gap. It covers the costs of unexpected situations that may occur after surgery, such as infections, the need for additional surgery, re-hospitalization, and even emergency medical evacuation. Purchasing this insurance before you travel to Turkey is the smartest way to protect yourself financially.