Global perspectives on health tourism: A comparative review of research trends and future prospects (2000-2024).

This study systematically reviews global research trends in health tourism (2000-2024), comparing international and Chinese scholarly perspectives to identify key themes, differences, and future directions for the field. We employed a systematic literature analysis approach, examining studies on health tourism definitions, classifications, motivations, influencing factors, evaluation systems, and development strategies. Comparative insights were drawn between international and Chinese research priorities. Findings reveal distinct research emphases: International scholars focus on global perspectives, interdisciplinary integration, cross-border service delivery, and ethical concerns, while Chinese researchers prioritize localized frameworks, regional characteristics, and policy applications. Both groups, however, share an interest in industrial integration and growth drivers. The study recommends that China enhance standardized evaluation methods, deepen quantitative research, and cultivate distinctive health tourism brands. Globally, researchers should strengthen qualitative studies with holistic perspectives and develop transferable models. Future research should integrate four key dimensions-theoretical advancement, technological innovation, and industrial collaboration-to address evolving demands in global health governance and industry transformation.