Reasons to Choose India for Medical Tourism

Top Reasons to Choose India for Medical Tourism

Why you must Choose India as your Medical Tourism Destination?

The medical tourism industry has steadily been increasing over the past few years. India is most sought after and fast emerging as a focal point of world medical tourism. A 2013 MTA Medical Tourism Patient Survey found that Mexico and India respectively have the highest demand for medical tourism. Over the years, India has grown to become a top-notch destination for medical value travel because it scores high over a range of factors that determine the overall quality of care. Undoubtedly, there are many countries that provide medical tourism services but India has its own charm that is worth catching attention. Below are some of the major reasons to fly to India to seek medical treatment.

Medical tourism, also known as health tourism, is a practice where people travel to another country for medical treatment. In recent times, it has become a top priority for travelers due to its various benefits. Let us discuss the benefits briefly.

Traveling to another country for medical treatment can save a considerable amount of money compared to getting the same treatment in one’s own country. Treatment in countries like the USA, and UK is expensive compared to other countries even with insurance. However, there are several private and government-funded hospitals in India that offer cost-effective medical treatments. India is a major destination for medical tourism, attracting a large number of international patients every year.

Medical tourism is a growing sector in India. Defined as the phenomenon of people traveling abroad for the best medical treatment, it is a recent buzzword in the healthcare sector. It is still in its infancy, which has led to the rise of the misconception that it is an untrustworthy sector. The reality is far from it. Yes, perhaps the term “medical tourism” is quite new, but the concept itself is not. Using medical tourism one can get the best treatment in India at an affordable cost.

The first recorded cases of medical tourism can be traced back to the height of the Greek Empire when pilgrims traveled from the eastern Mediterranean to Epidaurus in search of treatments for their ailments. Furthermore, while historically medical tourism has been associated with the phenomenon of people from developing countries traveling to major medical centers in developed countries, over time, and perhaps as a result of unfettered capitalism, the tide has been turning. Every year more and more people arrive in the other half in search of cheaper, more accessible healthcare. And this is where India comes into the picture.

    » Internationally Accredited Hospitals

The high-end healthcare system in India is as good as the best in the world. India maintains not only a robust accreditation system but also a large number of accredited facilities. There are 347 NABH (National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers) accredited hospitals that match any global infrastructure. India also has 23 JCI (Joint Commission International) accredited hospitals and compares well with other countries in Asia. This set of approved hospitals in India can provide care at par or above global standards.

    » Availability of Highly Experienced and Skilled Doctors

The high-quality education system of India is responsible for at least 30000 medical staff who graduate from the country’s top-notch medical universities every year. This has made India home to some of the most skilled doctors, surgeons, and medical professionals.

    » Monetary Savings

Most people opt for medical tourism because they cannot afford the high treatment costs in their countries. India ranks among the top destinations that offer the best medical treatments for the lowest costs. People opting to get treated in India can pay just 40% of the original cost that they would have to pay for the same treatment in countries like the UK or the US. India is a key medical travel destination currently with approximately 250,000 people visiting in year 2015 for various medical treatments. The number of people undergoing medical travel to India is expected to be around 600,000 annually by 2024.

    » Alternative Medicine

India is a country with a rich cultural heritage. The medicinal practices in the country date back to the era of Ayurveda, Yoga, and other natural therapies. There are several health centres across the country that offer treatment pertaining to alternative medicine.

    » Leisure Destinations

Patients planning to undergo a non-critical procedure can always combine their medical trip to India with a bit of leisure. There are many options when it comes to leisure destinations that a patient can visit before undergoing medical treatment. Medical facilitators in India offer attractive packages to medical tourists who take care of their medical and leisure needs.

    » Political Factors

The government of India has recently relaxed visa norms and has implemented a new E-visa policy. E-visa can be obtained for tourists, sightseeing short duration medical travel to India etc. Longer duration medical treatments in India require a medical visa which can be obtained through Indian embassies in the different countries. Medical visa to India costs vary from country to country within a range between 15- 140 US $ per person and is typically valid for 1 year with 3 multiple entries.

    » Cutting-edge Technologies

Cutting-edge technology to support medical diagnostics and medical procedures is employed by specialists in medical facilities. All recognized hospitals have invested a lot in supportive technology and operative techniques. The recent advancements in robotic surgeries, radiation surgery or radio therapies with cyberknife stereotactic options, IMRT / IGRT, transplant support systems, and advanced neuro, and spinal options are all available in India.

    » Feeling the Pulse

For greater understanding between patients and healthcare personnel, the warmth and hospitality of Indian hospitals is a big factor in choosing India as a healthcare destination. Among the top medical destinations of the world, India has the highest percentage of English-language-speaking people. Amidst the variety of cultures and traditions, if there is one thing that is common in India, that is the English language.

    » Choose a Healthcare Facility

After doing some internet research, choose the best medical tourism facility in India that specializes in the various treatments that we need. Additionally, a company that specializes in medical tourism will help you to choose the best medical facility in India.

    » Consult your Best Doctor

Before making any travel plans to India or any other country, consult your doctor or family doctor about your medical condition so that will come to know it’s safe to travel or not. Also, ask your doctor to refer you to the best Indian hospital or medical tourism providers so that you will not face any kind of issue while traveling.

    » Apply for a Medical Visa

When applying for a medical visa to India or another country, provide the documents required for the visa such as a letter from the Indian hospital, your valid passport, and patient medical records. You can get a medical visa through an Indian embassy or consulate or online.

    » Make Travel Plans Now

Once you get the medical visa from the embassy, need to make reservations for your flights, accommodation, and transportation. To find the best deals for your travel needs, you can use a travel agent or online booking websites.

    » Plan your Visit to India

Plan your time in India by knowing about the places, people, and customs which are there in that location. If required, you may also hire a local interpreter or translator for better communication with the hospital or doctors in India.

    » Reconnect with your Doctor

Once you are back to your home after the successful treatment in India for ongoing care and monitoring.

Here is the list of the best hospitals in India, which provide world-class treatment on a budget. All you have to do is drop a query to know more and get treated by India’s most reputed doctors:

• Fortis La Femme
• Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals
• BLK Super Specialty Hospital
• Fortis Escorts Heart Institute, New Delhi
• Max Super Specialty Hospital, Saket, New Delhi
• Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, New Delhi
• Max Super Specialty Hospital, Shalimar Bagh New Delhi
• Batra Hospital & Medical Research Centre
• Primus Super Specialty Hospital
• Sir Ganga Ram Hospital

FAQs related to medical facilities in India

Q. Why choose India for medical tourism?

A. India offers world-class healthcare at a lower cost compared to many developed countries such as the Middle East and the USA. You can find accredited hospitals, skilled doctors, and quality treatments across a variety of specialties, all at an affordable cost. Additionally, India has a rich cultural experience and diverse medical tourism options, making it a unique and enriching destination for your health and well-being.

Q. What types of medical treatments are available in India?

A. Various medical specialties or medical treatments are available in India, including cardiac surgery, orthopedics, cancer, oncology, dental care, and cosmetic surgery. Additionally, traditional Indian systems of medicine like Ayurveda and yoga are gaining global popularity for their holistic approach to healing.

Q. How do I find a reputable hospital in India?

A. Search for the best hospitals and healthcare providers that are accredited by the National Accreditation Board for Healthcare Providers (NABH) or JCI. Ask your doctor for recommendations or contact medical tourism organizations that specialize in India.

Q. What visa requirements are required for medical tourism in India?

A. Most foreign patients require a medical visa (e-visa) to get medical treatment in India. The Ministry of Tourism also offers an AYUSH visa for those seeking traditional Indian medical treatments. Make sure you apply for the appropriate medical visa well in advance of your medical trip to India.

Q. What are the post-treatment care options available?

A. Many reputed hospitals offer dedicated post-treatment care plans for their patients after the treatment, including follow-up consultations, physiotherapy, and medication prescriptions. Additionally, you can choose to recover in the hospital or in nearby accommodation, with some hospitals also providing telemedicine consultations for continued support after you return home.

Q. Is it safe to travel to India for medical treatment?

A. Yes. India is generally a safe destination for tourism, including medical tourism. However, it is always advisable to take necessary precautions such as obtaining travel insurance, following basic hygiene practices, and being aware of local customs and traditions.

Q. How can a medical tourism company help me with medical tourism in India?

A. Medical tourism providers will help you to finance your medical treatment in India. If you are facing financial constraints, connect you with a supportive community of individuals willing to contribute to your cause. This reduces financial stress and makes your medical tourism journey more accessible.

Conclusion

India’s medical tourism sector has immense potential to become a global leader. By focusing on affordability, quality healthcare, and a diverse cultural experience, India offers a strong proposition to international patients. By continuously improving infrastructure, promoting specialty areas, and providing personalized care, India can further strengthen its position as a leading destination for medical tourism, benefiting both the healthcare industry and the economy as a whole.