A two-stage framework for a resilient medical tourism supply chain considering social aspects and supplier evaluation under uncertainty: a real-case study

In the contemporary era, medical tourism as one of the service-oriented industries wields a substantial role in the economic prosperity of communities. Also, the diverse array of businesses has severely been influenced by the extensive dissemination of a virulent virus namely COVID-19, putting fierce strain on the profitability of organizations. In this respect, this research delves into the intricate dynamics of a medical tourism supply chain, particularly focusing on the post-corona era, addressing issues to rejuvenate the tourism sector. In this vein, a resilient multi-objective mathematical formulation in a two-stage optimization framework for the MTSC is developed based on a real case study in Tehran, Iran. To cope with multiple objectives in a scenario-based model under uncertainty, the weighted goal programming method and fuzzy robust stochastic programming are utilized, respectively. Besides, the initial optimization phase focuses on supplier evaluation based on sustainability and customer-centric criteria through a hybrid fuzzy DEMATEL-ANP approach, deducing the score of suppliers concerning each criterion as a parameter for the second stage. On the grounds of capacity constraint in terms of visa issuance, an outsourcing strategy is employed by medical tourism centers. To improve the company image and the allure of offered services, the effect of advertisement and discount rate have been explored. Ultimately, a comprehensive sensitivity analysis is carried out to elaborate upon immersive insights and recommendations for decision-makers. According to one of the significant implications, supply chain profitability is highly influenced by exerting resilient strategies (40% growth) that warrant substantial attention.