Cancer Treatment in Turkey: Questions International Patients Ask

Can international patients get cancer treatment in Istanbul?

Yes. Biruni University Hospital in Istanbul has an Oncology Center that treats international patients, with a coordinator who speaks your language from the first message. Physicians review your reports first, then propose a plan; the final decision is always made by the treating oncologist after assessment.

Which cancers and specialties are covered?

The hospital brings together medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, gynecologic oncology, breast health, hematology, nuclear medicine and pediatric hematology-oncology. Whether your specific diagnosis can be treated, and where, is confirmed by the physicians after they review your file.

How does the multidisciplinary tumor board work?

Complex cases are discussed by specialists from several fields, such as oncology, surgery, radiation, radiology and pathology, before a plan is proposed. The goal is one coordinated recommendation for each patient instead of separate opinions.

What treatments are available?

Depending on the diagnosis, options may include chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, bone marrow transplant, and CAR-T cell therapy for eligible patients, together with supportive and palliative care. The physicians recommend what suits your case; not every option applies to every patient.

What diagnostic and imaging technology is used?

The hospital lists 3 Tesla MRI, low-dose CT, PET/CT, SPECT-CT, a hybrid operating room and an in-house genetics laboratory. Your physicians decide which tests you need and whether existing results from your home country can be used, to avoid repeating them unnecessarily.

Can I get a second opinion before traveling?

Yes. Send your diagnosis and reports, and physicians in the relevant specialty review them and explain the options for your case, including whether continuing treatment in your own country may be the better choice. Ask the coordinator what the review includes.

What documents should I send?

Your latest medical report, imaging reports (DICOM images preferred), the pathology or biopsy report, recent blood tests, and a dated list of previous treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery. Send them by WhatsApp or email; medical files are not uploaded through the website form.

How quickly will I receive a proposed plan?

Usually within 24–48 hours of receiving a complete file. Complex cases may take longer because they are discussed across specialties. An incomplete file delays the review, so send everything you have at once.

How much does cancer treatment in Turkey cost?

There is no single price: cost depends on the diagnosis, the type and length of treatment, hospital stay and medications. Biruni Bridge provides a written estimate case by case after reviewing your reports. Ask exactly what it includes, such as tests, treatment, hospital stay, accommodation and transfers, so offers can be compared fairly.

How long will I stay, and can I continue treatment at home?

It depends on the plan. Some patients come for assessment or a defined treatment phase, others need a longer stay. When appropriate, follow-up is arranged remotely and shared with your local doctor, and the hospital provides a detailed discharge summary.

Do you treat children with cancer?

The hospital has pediatric hematology-oncology and bone marrow transplant programs for children, with a child-health center. Send your child's reports to the coordinator, and pediatric specialists will review them.

How do I start, and what travel support is available?

Send your reports on WhatsApp (+90 536 842 55 97) or by email (info@birunibridge.com), or use the form. Your coordinator arranges interpreting, a medical invitation letter for the visa, airport pick-up and transfer, accommodation for you and your companion, and follow-up after you return.