One of the primary reasons why India has emerged as a preferred destination for foreign patients is the significantly lower cost of living compared to many developed nations. The cost of medical procedures in India can be a fraction of what it would cost in countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, or Australia. This cost advantage is particularly attractive for those seeking expensive treatments, such as surgeries, organ transplants or cancer therapies.
Many Indian hospitals and healthcare providers like Lagom Health offer comprehensive medical tourism packages that bundle treatment costs with accommodation, travel, and other services. These packages are designed to provide a hassle-free experience for foreign patients, making it easier for them to plan and coordinate their medical journey to India.
Foreign Patients in India
Medical tourism has grown a lot in India. In the 2020-2021 Medical Tourism Index, India was ranked 10th. The number of foreign tourists coming to India for medical treatment increased from 1.83 lakh in 2020 to 3.04 lakh in 2022. This shows that there are big chances for doctors to gain from medical tourism. According to data released by India’s Ministry of Tourism, the huge number of medical tourists who visited India in 2020, the majority of 54% were from Bangladesh, followed by 9% from Iraq, 8% from Afghanistan, 6% from the Maldives, and 4.5% from a group of African nations. As per Times of India, almost 2 million patients visit India every year from these regions and generate $4 billion in annual forex each year.
Why India for Healthcare Needs?
1. Cost: Treatment in India is remarkably cost-effective, often starting at one-tenth of the price in Western countries. Popular treatments sought here include alternative medicine, bone-marrow transplant, cardiac bypass, eye surgery, and hip replacement.
2. Quality of Care: India is known for its warm hospitality and welcoming culture. Foreign patients often find the friendly and compassionate atmosphere in Indian healthcare facilities comforting and conducive to their recovery. The staff is trained to provide culturally sensitive care, taking into account the diverse backgrounds and beliefs of their patients. India boasts 28 Joint Commission International (JCI) accredited hospitals, offering advanced medical procedures such as heart surgery and hip resurfacing.
3. Ease of Travel: Visa restrictions have been eased for tourists from Gulf countries, and a visa-on-arrival scheme is in place for medical purposes. For foreign patients seeking a more comprehensive experience, India presents an opportunity to combine medical treatment with a memorable vacation. Many healthcare providers offer packages that include post-treatment recovery stays in scenic locations, allowing patients to recuperate while enjoying the beauty and serenity of India’s diverse landscapes.
4. Language: Many Indian healthcare professionals are fluent in multiple languages, including English, which facilitates effective communication and minimizes language barriers. This multilingual proficiency ensures that patients can express their concerns and understand their treatment plans without difficulty. Despite India’s linguistic diversity, English is widely spoken, facilitating communication with international patients.
In addition to modern medical practices, India is renowned for its rich heritage in traditional and alternative medicine systems, such as Ayurveda, Yoga, and Naturopathy. Many Indian healthcare facilities offer integrated treatment programs that combine conventional medicine with these ancient healing practices, providing a holistic approach to wellness.
LagomHealthServices.com: Simplifying Healthcare
LagomHealthServices.com serves as a comprehensive platform offering online medical opinions, treatment options, and logistical support for international patients. It collaborates with major hospitals in India such as Fortis, Apollo, and Manipal. Here are some benefits for patients availing healthcare facilities through Lagom Health:
- Online medical opinions from home comfort.
- Choice of specialists/hospitals.
- Treatment options in both allopathic and Ayurvedic streams.
- Cost details and treating doctor’s information provided.
- Consultation via Skype or phone.
- Assistance with medical visa processing and travel/accommodation arrangements.
- Post-treatment recovery options in holiday destinations.
- Post-treatment support in the patient’s home country.
Cost Comparison and Assistance
Lagom Health provides a cost comparison between India and Western countries such as the UK for major procedures on its website. They offer single-point contact for international patients during their stay in India.
By offering affordable, high-quality healthcare services coupled with ease of access and communication, India has emerged as a premier destination for medical tourism.
