Medical Travel India

India is a global leader in the medical tourism movement, and experts project continued growth over the next few years. Hundreds of thousands of international patients flock to India every year seeking medical treatment in a trend that is generating billions of dollars for the Indian economy.

Medical facilities in India range from grand-scale hospitals to private clinics. Many Indian doctors study in the West and are among the world’s leading specialists in their field. Major medical procedures such as orthopedic surgery, organ replacement and heart surgery are some of the most sought-after operations in India.

The single greatest motivator driving Western patients to international facilities is the discounted price, sometimes 80 to 90 percent less than they would pay at home. However, substantially shorter wait time is also a driving factor.

India information - for sightseeing, India is best visited during the cool months of the year (December to March), when temperatures are mild and the rains are subdued. Indian currency is the rupee (divided into 100 paise), which trades favorably against Western currency. Six-month tourist visas must be obtained by visitors in advance from Indian embassies around the world. Those visiting expressly for medical treatment qualify for a special visa that allows multiple entries and extended recovery periods.

India medical holiday - a land of historic traditions and myriad cultures, India is one of the world’s most captivating holiday destinations. There are 22 official languages spread across this diverse subcontinent, and tourists flock here for the opportunity to glimpse some of the world’s best-known historic attractions like the Taj Mahal, ancient Hindu temples and vestiges of the British Raj.

India health and safety - India is a safe travel destination and tourists have little to worry about as long as they stick to well-traveled areas and practice common sense. Scams artists, touts and pickpockets are the greatest threat, so it is always wise to keep a tight reign on your belongings. Sanitation and hygiene are excellent in hospitals, clinics and resorts, though sampling authentic cuisine and street food (still highly recommended) can lead to a mild upset stomach.

Getting there – travelers originating from Europe and North America usually land in one of the following cities: New Delhi, Kolkata, Bangalore, Chennai (an important medical tourism hub) or Mumbai. Direct flights are available from Newark, JFK and O’Hare international airports in the US. Flights from the US take between 15 and 20 hours, while those originating in major European cities are shorter.

India hotels - India is a land of infinite options, and visitors will find that they can spend as little (or as much) as they like. Clean budget hotels in major cities offer basic rooms with shared restroom facilities for as little as US$10. Meanwhile, upscale resorts and lavish, five-star hotels in Mumbai or New Delhi can cost US$400 per night or more. In addition, limitless mid-range options are available.