MEDICAL INDIA TOURISM
Medical tourism refers to people traveling to a country other than their own to obtain medical treatment. In the past this usually referred to those who traveled from less-developed countries to major medical centers in highly developed countries for treatment unavailable at home. However, in recent years it may equally refer to those from developed countries who travel to developing countries for lower priced medical treatments. The motivation may be for medical services unavailable or illegal in the home country.
Medical tourism most often is for surgeries (cosmetic or otherwise) or similar treatments, though people also travel for dental tourism or fertility tourism.People with rare conditions may travel to countries where the treatment is better understood. However, almost all types of health care are available, including psychiatry, alternative medicine, convalescent care, and even burial services.
Why Medical Tourism at India
India has one of the best qualified professionals in each and every field, and this fact has now been realized the world over. Regarding Medical Facilities India has the most competent doctors and world class Medical Facilities. With most competitive charges for treatment, India is a very lucrative destination for people wanting to undergo treatment of certain medical problems who do not need immediate emergency treatment.
Medical tourism is a growing sector in India. India is becoming the 2nd medical tourism destination after Thailand. South India, Chennai & Coimbatore is regarded as "India's Health City" as it attracts 45% of health tourists visiting India and 40% of domestic health tourists. India’s medical tourism sector was expected to experience an annual growth rate of 30% from 2012, making it a $2 billion industry by 2015. As medical treatment costs in the developed world balloon - with the United States leading the way - more and more Westerners are finding the prospect of international travel for medical care increasingly appealing. An estimated 150,000 of these travel to India for low-priced healthcare procedures every year. Cardio Treatment, Cosmetic surgery, bariatric surgery, knee cap replacements, liver transplants, and cancer treatments are some of the most sought out medical tourism procedures opted by foreigners.
The Benefits of Medical Tourism
Affordability and Cost-effectiveness
Comparing Medical Treatment Pricing
| Procedure | USA | Singapore | India |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chelation Therapy | $6,000 | $1,750 | $1,400 |
| EECP Treatment | $5,000 | $3,300 | $1,250 |
| Bioflex | $3,000 | $1,500 | $800 |
| Hip Replacement | $24,000 | $15,000 | $6,300 |
| Breast Augmentation | $10,000 | $8,000 | $2,200 |
| Spinal Fusion | $62,000 | $9,000 | $5,500 |
| Coronary Angioplasty | $41,000 | $11,250 | $3,500 |
Travel Opportunities
Even though medical tourism is about obtaining medical care, a side benefit of medical tourism is having the opportunity to travel to another country. For some medical tourists, especially those seeking dental care, cosmetic care or wellness treatments, these can enjoy the opportunity to travel overseas in addition to receiving less expensive healthcare.