Medical Tourism in Algeria as a Way to Achieve Local Development “Guelma Province Model”

Abstract

There is no doubt that tourism with its various types is regarded as the pillar of economic and social development because of its impact on the various economic aspects. It largely contributes to the gross value added and plays a role in creating jobs and in absorbing a large proportion of workers. Besides, it boosts the local business market, and industrializes the tourism sector. In this context, medical tourism has become a destination for many tourists who wish to be acquainted with this recreational activity. From this perspective, the present study attempted to shed light on the reality of medical tourism in the province of Guelma, one of the famous touristic areas in Algeria, in order to identify the tourism product and its impact on stimulating local development in the area. The aim is to identify the problems and challenges faced as well as the solutions proposed to promote the sector and activate its developmental role. This study concluded that medical tourism in the province of Guelma is very important because of the availability of the natural, human and historical components of tourism. It has gained greater importance and may gain greater importance in the future through financial returns, capital hiring, as well as further investment. This objective can be realized on the condition that all available resources in the field of medical tourism are well exploited.