President Donald Trump’s recent executive orders and policy changes are poised to have a significant impact on medical travel—both into and out of the United States. In our recent webinar, US Medical Travel 2025 & Beyond: The Trump Effect, Elizabeth Ziemba and I explored the shifting landscape and what these changes mean for patients, providers, and the industry at large.
Medical Travel Into the US
Barriers at the Border
Stricter border controls will lead to longer visa wait times and increased scrutiny of travelers. During his first administration, these barriers slowed international patient arrivals, and they are likely to do so again. Heightened restrictions may discourage individuals from seeking medical treatment in the U.S., redirecting them to alternative destinations.
WHO Withdrawal and Global Perception
The U.S. withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO) has already harmed its reputation in global health circles. International patients may be hesitant to seek treatment in the U.S., particularly if they perceive a decline in the country’s commitment to global health standards. Additionally, recent reports criticizing the effectiveness and efficiency of the U.S. healthcare system further damage its appeal as a medical travel destination.
Americans Traveling for Care
Reproductive Healthcare
With the reinstatement of the “Mexico City Policy” and increasingly restrictive state laws on reproductive healthcare, more Americans may seek medical travel options abroad. Countries with more accessible reproductive healthcare services will likely see an influx of U.S. patients seeking abortion services, fertility treatments, and other related procedures.
Gender-Affirming Care
Tighter restrictions on gender-affirming care—particularly for minors—are expected to drive more transgender individuals and families to seek medical treatment overseas. This could create a new wave of outbound medical travelers looking for care in destinations with progressive healthcare policies.
General Impacts on Medical Travel
Rising Costs
Trade disputes, tariffs, global instability, and labor shortages in the U.S. will likely drive up healthcare costs even further. The U.S. already has the most expensive healthcare system in the world, and additional policy changes, including potential alterations to the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare), could make care even less affordable. While cost differences have historically not been enough to push large numbers of U.S. patients abroad, this time may be different.
The Strength of the U.S. Dollar
Historically, investors have sought the U.S. dollar as a safe haven during times of uncertainty. However, unpredictable policies—ranging from tariffs to tax cuts—could either strengthen the dollar or lead to inflationary pressure and economic instability. Either scenario will significantly impact medical travel, affecting both those coming to the U.S. for treatment and Americans seeking care abroad.
Global Perception and Policy Shifts
The “America First” stance and withdrawal from international agreements, such as the Paris Climate Accord, continue to erode the U.S.’s global image. For medical travelers, perception matters—patients may opt for destinations that appear more stable and welcoming.
Travel Restrictions
Travel bans and visa restrictions could further complicate medical travel, particularly for patients from specific regions. These limitations could lead to shifts in medical tourism flows, influencing which destinations patients choose for their care.
International Healthcare Intermediaries
Health ministries, insurance providers, and third-party administrators worldwide are increasingly scrutinizing the cost of U.S. healthcare. As costs rise and uncertainty grows, international insurers may steer patients toward more affordable, high-quality destinations for complex medical treatments.
Navigating Disruptive Uncertainty
The rapid policy shifts under the Trump administration are already reshaping the medical travel industry. U.S. and international healthcare providers, facilitators, and insurers must adapt their strategic plans to navigate these changes.
What does this mean for you?
- For healthcare providers: Assess the impact of new policies on your ability to attract international patients and explore alternative strategies.
- For medical travel facilitators: Stay ahead of regulatory changes and ensure your clients have up-to-date guidance.
- For patients: Consider all your options carefully, whether seeking care within the U.S. or abroad.
The medical travel landscape is shifting—stay informed and be prepared for what’s ahead. If you have specific questions, please get in touch istackpole@stackpoleassociates.com. Let’s continue the conversation.
