Qualinn 2024: Driving Innovation and Excellence in Healthcare in Cali

Cali became the epicenter of medical tourism this week during the Qualinn 2024 Symposium on Innovation and Clinical Excellence.

Organized by the Cali Chamber of Commerce, the event brought together more than 300 healthcare leaders, entrepreneurs, researchers, and government representatives to discuss and shape the future of medical care in the region.

Showcasing Cali’s Competitiveness

The symposium highlighted Cali’s position as Colombia’s second-largest destination for medical tourism, following Bogotá.

Melissa Vergara, Secretary of Economic Development, remarked: “Our city combines high-quality medical services with a robust hospital infrastructure capable of welcoming patients from around the globe.”

In 2024, Cali hosted over 5,000 international patients—a 23% increase compared to the previous year. This growth reflects the success of international promotion strategies and the exceptional quality of the city’s healthcare institutions.

Pillars of Success: Innovation, Connectivity, and Collaboration

Speakers at the event underscored the critical role of technological innovation in modern healthcare. From AI-powered diagnostic tools to digital platforms for patient management, Cali is positioning itself as a leader in adopting advanced healthcare technologies.

Despite these advancements, air connectivity remains a hurdle. Alfonso Bonilla Aragón Airport, a key international gateway, needs enhanced routes to improve access for foreign patients. Julián Franco,

Secretary of Tourism for Valle del Cauca, emphasized:
“Efficient connectivity is crucial to establishing ourselves as a competitive destination for medical tourism.”

The symposium also highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships in strengthening Cali’s medical tourism ecosystem.

Collaborative efforts between clinics, hotels, transportation providers, and tour operators are essential to deliver seamless experiences for patients and their companions.

Global Ambitions

Qualinn 2024 served as a platform to tackle the challenges of internationalization. Ana María Castillo, Director of Internationalization at the Cali Chamber of Commerce, pointed out:

“Cali has immense potential to position itself globally as a hub for healthcare innovation. The city must not only attract patients but also lead in research and clinical trials to elevate its scientific profile.”

A Vision for the Future

The event made it clear that Cali has the resources and determination to emerge as a global leader in medical tourism.

By fostering innovation, improving air connectivity, and strengthening collaboration among stakeholders, the city is building a world-class healthcare ecosystem that benefits both patients and the local economy.

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