Medical Tourism in India

We are all aware of what tourism means.  But then, how can someone mix fun, relaxation and leisure together with healthcare? Intriguing isn’t it? Welcome to the world of MEDICAL TOURISM.

Medical tourism can be broadly defined as provision of ‘cost effective’ private medical care in collaboration with thetourism industry, for patients needing surgical and other forms of specialized treatment.The idea of a health holiday is to get away from our daily hectic routine and go to a relaxing surrounding. Now what can be the most relaxing place in the world other than the beautiful subcontinent of India? Medical Tourism is a growing sector in India and is expected to experience an annual growth rate of 30%, making it a 2 billion industry by 2015.

Ayurveda in Kerala

Ayurveda and Herbal Treatment in India

India’s cost effective and efficient medical sector has made it a favoured destination for healthcare. The Indian systems of medicine like Ayurveda, Yoga, Rejuvenation Therapy which are among the ancient systems of medical treatment are still sought after by millions of people across the world. Most of the surgical procedures are available in India at one tenth the cost of those in developed countries.

Photo of Patient after Hip Resurfacing Surgery at Apollo Hospital, Chennai (Photo: Health Base)

As medical treatment costs in the developed countries have reached the zenith, more and more people from different parts of the world are finding the prospect of International travel for medical care increasingly appealing. In general, patients can save about 70-90% compared to American hospitals. Also the reduced cost need not necessarily translate into poor quality. Most leading hospitals, which receive a steady stream of patients from other States and abroad, have separate wings for International patients. There are many hospitals which receive more than 100 overseas patients a month. The Medical Tourism activity is mainly driven by private sector.

Apollo Hospitals in India

Fortis Hospitals in India

High quality expertise of medical professionals, backed by the fast improving equipment and nursing facilities, and above all, the cost effectiveness of the package is what lures people from other countries to India. India is known in particular for heart surgery, hip resurfacing and other areas of advanced medicine.

Over the Hill – Kerala

In India, Kerala in particular has developed Medical Tourism for the promotion of tourism in Kerala. As a part of this, almost all the hotels and resorts in Kerala have come up with spas and Ayurvedic centres. Kerala has established itself as a prominent destination for many people because of its natural beauty and cultural assets. It has lots of trained doctors and excellent hospitals which offer International standard treatments at very affordable prices. The sun-kissing beaches in Alappuzha, its backwaters, Boat races to name a few, are a nowhere else-on-earth experience to any visitor.

Resorts in Chennai

Chennai is regarded as the ‘Capital of Medical Tourism’ in India. It attracts 45% of health tourists from abroad. Due to its infrastructure and technology which are on par with those of developed countries, Chennai is a favourable destination. It has some of the best hospitals and treatment centres in the world with the best facilities including airport pickups, visa assistance, boarding and lodging. With institutions such as Apollo Hospitals, the largest health care provider in Asia, Sankara Nethralaya, Chettinad Health City, Adyar Cancer Institute etc, Chennai is a real gateway to health. The visitors would find the beaches, resorts, MGM’s and the beautiful temples in Chennai a feast for their eyes.

Service Apartments in Chennai

One thing contributing to Medical Tourism in India is the availability of Serviced Apartments. These are furnished apartments available for short term or long term use. They are not only less expensive than hotel rooms but are also more comfortable than hotels when the objective is patient care. They are most convenient while travelling with a family. These apartments are generally provided with cooking facilities, television, internet access and most importantly, a kitchen. Having a kitchen implies that the visitor can opt for eating in instead of out, hence making an instant saving. In short, these apartments give the visitors a ‘home away from home’ feeling.

Medical Tourism in India

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