Medical tourism refers to the practice of traveling to another country for medical treatments or procedures that might not be available in one’s home country or are too expensive. India has been a popular destination for medical tourism for many years now. The country offers world-class medical facilities, skilled doctors, and affordable treatment options, making it an attractive option for patients from all over the world.
The Growth of Medical Tourism in India
Over the years, medical tourism has become a significant contributor to India’s healthcare industry. According to a report by the Ministry of Tourism, the number of medical tourists visiting India has been increasing at a rate of 15-20% per year. In 2019 alone, India received over 500,000 medical tourists from countries like the USA, UK, and Canada.
One of the primary reasons for the growth of medical tourism in India is the cost factor. Medical treatments and procedures in India are significantly cheaper compared to other developed countries like the USA and UK. For instance, a heart bypass surgery that costs around $130,000 in the USA costs only $9,000 in India.
The Advantages of Medical Tourism in India
Apart from cost savings, there are several other advantages to opting for medical tourism in India. Some of these include:
Quality Healthcare Facilities: Indian hospitals are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and technology that meet global standards. Many hospitals have accreditations from international organizations like JCI (Joint Commission International) and NABH (National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers), which ensures quality healthcare services.
Expert Doctors: Indian doctors are highly qualified and experienced in their respective fields. Many doctors have trained abroad and have worked with some of the best hospitals globally.
Minimal Waiting Time: Waiting time for surgeries or treatments is often minimal as compared to other countries where waiting lists can extend up to several months.
Availability of Alternative Therapies: India is known for its traditional and alternative therapies like Ayurveda, Yoga, and Naturopathy. Patients can opt for these therapies alongside conventional treatments to aid their recovery.
The Challenges Faced by Medical Tourism in India
While medical tourism has been growing in India, there are some challenges that the industry faces. One of the primary concerns is the lack of standardization in treatment costs and quality across different hospitals. Patients need to do their research and choose a hospital that meets their requirements.
Another challenge is the lack of awareness among patients about the facilities available in India. Many patients are not aware of the medical facilities and services offered in India, and hence they do not consider it as an option.
The Future of Medical Tourism in India
Despite these challenges, medical tourism is expected to grow significantly in India over the coming years. The government has taken several initiatives to promote medical tourism, including setting up dedicated medical visa services and providing tax incentives for hospitals that provide healthcare services to foreign patients.
In conclusion, medical tourism is a significant contributor to India’s healthcare industry, offering affordable treatment options, world-class facilities, and skilled doctors. With the government’s support and initiatives, it is expected to continue growing over time.