Cross-Border Medical Tourism in South Asia: Legal, Ethical, and Policy Dimensions of Bangladeshi Patient Mobility

Cross-border medical tourism has emerged as a significant phenomenon in South Asia, particularly with Bangladeshi patients traveling to India for treatment. This study investigates the determinants, legal frameworks, and ethical considerations shaping cross-border healthcare mobility. Using a mixed-methods approach that combines empirical evidence, policy analysis, and comparative literature review, the research identifies key motivators for patient mobility, including affordability, quality of care, and cultural-linguistic familiarity. It further examines regulatory and legal barriers, such as visa restrictions, fragmented healthcare regulations, and the absence of bilateral healthcare agreements, which impede patient access and equity. Ethical implications surrounding patient safety, informed consent, and host-country obligations are analyzed. Comparative lessons from South Korea and other global medical tourism hubs provide insights into rights-based governance and policy standardization. The study concludes with recommendations for improving legal, ethical, and policy frameworks to protect patient rights, enhance equity, and streamline cross-border healthcare access for Bangladeshi patients.