Thailand is looking to position itself as a global leader in medical tourism with the launch of a new portal offering visitors all they need to know on everything from traditional Thai medical practitioners to cosmetic surgery.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) site, www.thailandmedtourism.com, collects and provides information on medical tourism providers across the country, including hospitals, clinics and spas.

Authorities hope that the country can join the ranks of established medical tourism destinations such as Malaysia, Singapore and the US.

Traditional Thai medicine practitioners are also listed on the site with their level of accreditation and standard, said TAT.

Visitors can search by destination and also view associated travel options such as hotels and restaurants, with authorities hoping that additional choices will boost both interest and trip length to Thailand.

The website is the first stage of a campaign which will see blogger reviews and a campaign to emphasize the credibility and safety of medical services in Thailand.

Boosting medical tourism was just one of the tactics outlined by TAT earlier this year when it unveiled its plan to rebuild Thailand’s popularity as a tourist destination after the civil unrest in the country in April.

Next month, a new wellness complex is opening on island of Phuket. The Phuket International Academy Sports and Leisure Club (PIASLC) is a leading-edge development that is poised to become Asia’s pre-eminent competition, training and event complex.

Combining an excellent location with world-class facilities, it is already attracting interest from respected global sporting institutions and international corporations.

The PIASLC marked its international launch at the World Sport Destination Expo (WSDE) in Johannesburg during the final week of the FIFA 2010 World Cup.