India has emerged as a global leader and set its standard high when it comes to medical tourism. Medical tourism can be explained as the journey that patients may undertake to receive affordable and quality medical treatment in another country. When it comes to seeking the best healthcare facilities with affordability in mind, India stands out as an attractive destination among the countries that have emerged as key players in the global phenomenon. Known for its skilled medical professionals, cutting-edge healthcare facilities, and significantly lower treatment costs, India’s appeal continues to grow as patients explore alternatives to the often prohibitively expensive options in their home countries. In this article, let’s explore why India is a perfect and convenient destination for medical tourism.
Why India is an attractive destination for medical tourism
Affordable health costs in India
When it comes to medical tourism, affordability and cost savings are a priority. India is known for its affordable medical service that attracts patients from around the world. Rising healthcare costs in the US and Canada make people consider India, which provides the best health treatment with affordability and without wasting time. For example, the average cost of dental implants in the US will be around $3000 to $5000 per tooth, while in India, the budget for the same procedure is affordable, and it costs you $600 to $1000. As per the credit rating agency Crisil, medical tourists visiting India have reached approximately 7.3 million in 2024, an increase from an estimate of 6.1 million in 2023. To keep up with these incredible numbers and attract additional inbound patients, Indian states have been promoting themselves as potential medical tourism destinations by improving their infrastructure and regulations. India is facilitating surgery treatments, transplants, and heart surgeries at a lesser cost, which approximately costs 70-80% less in India than in Western countries.
Many high-cost procedure costs are lower in India than in the United States, Europe, and other developed nations. The affordability is mostly due to a mix of advantageous foreign exchange rates, lower operational expenses, and highly efficient medical facilities that can run at lower costs while maintaining quality. Hip replacement in the US will cost $30, 000 to $50, 000, while the same procedure in India will cost approx $7,000 to $10, 000. Another similar example is complex cardiac surgeries, such as bypass surgeries or valve replacements, which may cost $70,000 to $200,000 in the US, but in India, it will cost approximately $7,000-$15,000 with high-quality medical facilities.
Apart from budget-friendly medical costs, India offers affordable travel and accommodation options for medical tourists. Generally, in other countries, cancer treatment costs are higher and unaffordable, but India seems like a good option when it comes to medical treatment of cancer. Many hospitals provide insurance coverage that is specifically designed for international patients. This lowers the financial burden and assures them of comprehensive medical care with financial security.
World-class medical facilities and medical professionals
High-quality medical facilities with highly skilled doctors are another factor that attracts patients to invest in any hospital. In several years, India’s healthcare infrastructure has seen remarkable development, with hospitals, clinics, and specialty centers across the country now meeting global standards in quality and patient care. Indian hospitals are renowned for their accreditation and certifications. Many hospitals in India have received international accreditations such as Joint Commission International (JCI) and the National Accreditations Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH). Major metropolitan areas like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai are home to hospitals accredited by JCI and the NABH.
India is home to highly qualified, skilled, and experienced doctors. Many doctors in India have high-quality experience and international training with degrees from prestigious colleges in the US and UK. Indian medical students receive higher education from esteemed international organizations. They have expertise in several medical specialities and are well adapted to handling any serious condition or medical care. Indian hospitals are equipped with cutting-edge medical technology and state-of-the-art infrastructure. You will witness the advanced diagnostic equipment, modern operation theatres and specialised facilities for various medical procedures in India. This guarantees that patients receive the finest possible care utilizing the most recent medical developments.
Minimal waiting time
Time is precious, and when it comes to critical situations, in this case, people look for minimal waiting time. For example, for any medical procedure in countries like Canada, the medical history of waiting for too long is exhausting and frustrating. In other parts of the world, people wait for months, several weeks or years to receive specialized medical care. However, in India, patients often experience much shorter waiting times, making it an ideal destination for those needing urgent medical intervention.
In any case of medical care, India gets immediate attention with a minimum waiting list. Hospitals and clinics in India frequently prioritise international patients, allowing them to schedule procedures sooner and reducing the potential complications associated with delayed treatment. Indian hospitals and clinics prioritize effective appointment scheduling and administration. Also, patients who need emergency health treatment will be seen or scheduled first without wasting time in India.
Language Compatibility
Many Indian doctors are trained abroad, and that’s why dealing with international patients is much easier in India. Language is an important factor for any outsider patient when it comes to medical tourism. The English-speaking population of India is a significant asset in medical tourism, reducing language barriers that can make treatment in other countries challenging. Additionally, India’s vibrant cultural diversity means that patients from various backgrounds can find areas with significant expat communities, familiar cuisine, and cultural comfort, making their medical journey smoother and more comforting.
Personalized and comfortable medical care
Seeking treatment in India is a privilege, as you will be treated with high priority and receive personalized consultations and treatments. India stands as a leading destination for personalized and comfortable medical care. With world-class hospitals, skilled doctors, and advanced technology, patients can receive tailored treatment plans that cater to their individual needs. The focus on patient experience ensures a comfortable and stress-free journey, from diagnosis to recovery. India's growing reputation as a medical tourism hub attracts patients from around the world seeking high-quality, affordable healthcare solutions.
Government policies and support
Indian government played a crucial role and has recognized the potential of medical tourism as a driver of economic growth and has taken steps to support it through favourable policies. The introduction of medical visas, or “Med-visas,” simplifies the entry process for patients and their caregivers. These visas allow patients to stay in the country for extended periods, with options for quick renewals or re-entries if follow-up treatments are necessary. Some governments also offer financial incentives to healthcare providers to attract foreign patients, while others focus on improving the overall healthcare infrastructure and regulatory frameworks to ensure high-quality medical care. Also, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare announced the introduction of India's official Medical Value Travel (MVT) webpage for anyone seeking medical care in India. This platform facilitates the information and patient journey of overseas medical tourists visiting India.
India’s unique combination of high-quality care, cost-effective treatment, and a patient-centred approach to medical tourism makes it a top choice for international patients seeking affordable healthcare. By considering these factors, one can easily choose medical tourism in India as their preferred option for better healthcare at an affordable price. As more patients seek quality treatment without financial strain, India’s role as a preferred healthcare destination will likely continue to flourish, offering a model for accessible healthcare worldwide.
