What Real Research Looks Like Before Booking Medical Treatment in Türkiye

When it comes to your health, research is everything. With Türkiye quickly becoming one of the top destinations for medical tourism, it's more important than ever to know how to cut through the noise and spot the difference between credible providers and those operating under the radar.

At Oceanscape Group, we’ve seen firsthand what happens when people fall into the trap of flash deals, smooth marketing, and WhatsApp-only promises.

Here’s what real research should look like — and the red flags to watch out for.

What Real Research Should Include

1. Hospital Accreditation

   • Ask if the hospital is accredited by the Ministry of Health for International Health Tourism. This is mandatory for treating international patients legally in Türkiye.

   • Look for additional certifications such as JCI (Joint Commission International), ISO, or European Medical Board approvals.

2. Board-Certified Surgeons

   • Check that the surgeon is not only licensed in Türkiye but also board-certified in their specialty.

   • Verify that they are registered in Türkiye’s Sağlık Bakanlığı (Ministry of Health) database.

3. Transparent Consultation Process

   • Reputable providers will offer video consultations with the surgeon or medical team — not just WhatsApp messages or PDFs sent without explanation.

   • You should be given a formal treatment plan and pre- and post-operative instructions in advance.

4. Proper Paperwork and Policies

   • You should receive a written quote, informed consent forms, and terms of service via official channels — not screenshots or casual WhatsApp messages.

   • Certificates should never be sent casually via WhatsApp. They should be verifiable through official health portals or regulatory boards.

5. English-Speaking Case Managers or Coordinators

   • Especially for international patients, your point of contact should be fluent in English, knowledgeable about the treatment process, and familiar with the Turkish health system.

   
   

🚩 Red Flags to Avoid

• ❌ No Video Consults or Medical Review Before Payment

  If the surgeon won’t meet you on video or review your case before asking for money — walk away.

• ❌ “Cash-Only” Payment Requests

  Legitimate hospitals and providers in Türkiye offer receipts, payment plans, and official invoices. Cash-only deals with no traceability are risky.

• ❌ Treatment Plans Sent Over WhatsApp Alone

  Any provider only offering info or treatment plans via WhatsApp without formal documentation is operating below standard.

• ❌ Certificates That Can’t Be Verified

  If you’re sent a certificate via WhatsApp, ask where you can verify it online. Many are fabricated or expired.

• ❌ Social Media Without Substance

  Social media can be a helpful window into a provider’s results — but it is also a marketing tool. In Türkiye, strict regulations prohibit misleading ads or influencer content that bypasses medical ethics. Flashy videos aren’t proof of safety or credibility.

  
  

Questions to Ask Before Booking:

• Is the hospital certified for international health tourism?

• Can I verify your surgeon’s qualifications independently?

• Will I receive a full treatment plan in writing before paying anything?

• Do you offer video consultations with the actual medical team?

• What happens in case of complications — do you offer insurance?

  
  

Final Thoughts

You deserve more than smooth marketing and fast replies — you deserve real care. At Oceanscape Group, we only work with Ministry-certified hospitals, board-certified surgeons, and facilities that pass every legal and ethical requirement. We also offer complication insurance — a growing requirement for international patients in Türkiye — and every client has bilingual support on the ground.

Do it once. Do it right.If you’re ready to take the next step in your health journey, make sure it’s based on solid research — not just what you see online.