Istinye University has launched a significant collaboration in the field of health tourism in partnership with the Ministry of Trade of the Republic of Türkiye. On August 15, 2025, a protocol was signed regarding the “Health Tourism Education Certificate Program” and the “Foreign Language Education Certificate Program” with the participation of Istinye University Rector Prof. Dr. Erkan İbiş and Tarık Sönmez, Director General of International Service Trade at the Ministry of Trade.
The programs, to be implemented jointly by Istinye University’s Continuing Education Center (İSÜSEM) and School of Foreign Languages, will provide health tourism professionals with training at international standards. Participants will receive comprehensive instruction on managing health tourism processes, building strong relations with international patients, developing cultural awareness, and understanding sector-specific regulations. Under the protocol, 60% of the tuition fees will be supported by the Ministry of Trade’s Directorate General of International Service Trade.
Qualified Human Resources for Health Tourism
Health tourism is a rapidly growing sector both in Türkiye and worldwide. However, challenges such as quality standards, ethical and legal issues, language barriers, lack of promotion, and bureaucratic hurdles remain significant. Addressing these needs, Istinye University is launching certificate programs supported by the Ministry of Trade through its Continuing Education Center and School of Foreign Languages.
Designed for professionals working in healthcare institutions and agencies, the program covers critical topics such as health tourism regulations, patient rights, cultural awareness, communication techniques, and health tourism marketing. Participants who successfully complete the training will be awarded an Istinye University-approved certificate officially recognized by the Ministry of Trade.
“We Will Strengthen Türkiye’s Potential in Health Tourism”
Emphasizing the national importance of the protocol, Istinye University Rector Prof. Dr. Erkan İbiş said:
“Türkiye is a major hub in the international arena thanks to the quality and accessibility of its healthcare services. With this protocol signed in cooperation with the Ministry of Trade, we aim to provide healthcare professionals and sector specialists with training at international standards. This step will not only enhance individual careers but also elevate Türkiye’s brand value in health tourism. With its knowledge and academic strength, our university will continue to be a pioneer in healthcare transformation.”
“Qualified Human Resources Are Essential in Health Tourism”
Dr. Lecturer Gülhan Kalmuk, faculty member at Istinye University’s Department of Health Management and coordinator of the program, highlighted the importance of the initiative:
“Health tourism is one of the fastest-growing sectors for Türkiye in the global arena. Yet, for this growth to be sustainable, a qualified workforce is essential. This program will equip participants not only with theoretical knowledge but also with practical skills in areas such as international patient relations, legal regulations, cultural sensitivity, and marketing strategies. Our aim is to strengthen Türkiye’s competitive edge in health tourism and support its position as a global player.”
Who Can Apply?
The program is open to:
Employees of international patient departments in public and private healthcare institutions,
Doctors, nurses, and healthcare managers,
Professionals aiming for a career in health and tourism,
Students and graduates of related fields.
By equipping participants with knowledge and skills at international standards, the program offers a powerful opportunity to become professionals who make a difference in the rapidly growing health tourism sector.
