مهدی عبدشرافت

Objective : This study examines the challenges and strategic approaches to developing and sustaining medical tourism supply chains (MTSC), particularly in developing countries. Medical tourism is one of the fastest-growing sectors within the global tourism industry, generating significant economic impact through the cross-border movement of patients seeking medical care. Despite its growth potential, numerous barriers hinder the effective design and implementation of sustainable MTSCs, especially in emerging economies such as Iran.  Methodology: The study uses the fuzzy Step-wise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis (SWARA) to quantify the relative importance of various barriers to MTSC development. Subsequently, the fuzzy Weighted Aggregated Sum Product Assessment (WASPAS) method is used to prioritize strategic interventions to overcome the identified barriers. This hybrid fuzzy MCDM approach effectively handles the inherent uncertainty and subjectivity in expert evaluations, thereby providing a robust decision-making framework. Results : Findings indicate that among the main barriers, the lack of technological support to facilitate supply chain activities constitutes the most critical hurdle faced by Iran’s medical tourism industry. The limited adoption and implementation of technological innovations restrict efficient coordination, information sharing, and overall supply chain sustainability. In response to these challenges, the study identifies "economic and incentives-based strategies" as the foremost approach for overcoming barriers in MTSCs. This strategy emphasizes the creation of financial incentives, subsidies, and economic policies to encourage innovation, infrastructure development, and enhanced stakeholder collaboration. Conclusion : Policy implications suggest that governments and healthcare providers in developing countries should prioritize investments in technology and infrastructure, alongside devising incentive schemes tailored to the medical tourism sector. Collaboration among various stakeholders—including healthcare institutions, tourism agencies, technology providers, and policymakers—is critical to creating resilient supply chains that can adapt to evolving market demands and global health trends.