Medical and Dental Tourism in India - Part 2

Part 2 - Pros and Cons of Medical Tourism 

and India as a destination

Benefits of Travelling for Medical Care

• Cost Savings
• Less Waiting 

(both discussed in part 1 of this blog)

• Availability of world class health care

Many countries have hospitals and health care centres which are internationally recognised for clinical excellence and high quality care. Joint Commission International (JCI) is a not-for-profit organization, based in the USA, who assess organizations according to exacting standards on patient safety and high quality practices and procedures. Currently, 659 health care organizations around the world have achieved JCI accreditation, which is viewed as the gold standard in the global health care community.

• Combining medical treatment with a vacation

As an added bonus to travelling for medical care, many people use the opportunity to take a break from their every day routine whilst seeing a new place and experiencing the local food and culture. Many destinations also offer alternative therapies at a lower cost which can be beneficial in the healing process and rejuvenation. 

• Discretion

Some people may prefer the anonymity of having a procedure done whilst abroad and therefore not having to reveal details to family, friends and colleagues. 

Some difficulties to consider

• Need to do research

The decision to go abroad for treatment should never be taken lightly. It is important to do your research on the physician and hospital or clinic you are planning to visit and prepare properly. Medical tourism facilitators can help with planning but the medical and practical aspects of your trip. This will be discussed in the next section.

• Lack of Regulation 

There are currently no distinct laws or guidelines to regulate international medical tourism. 

The Medical Tourism Association is a non-profit, membership based association for the medical tourism industry which seeks to work with providers and consumers around the world to promote high quality, transparent healthcare. However, membership is purely voluntary. 

• Language and cultural differences

There is the possibility of misunderstandings due to language and cultural differences. These can be minimised by using a good interpreter where required and making sure any questions or concerns are addressed, especially when giving consent for a procedure.

• Travelling 

Depending on the destination visas and vaccinations may be required. You will need to check advice on how soon you are able to fly after surgery and plan accordingly.

• Follow up care and post-treatment complications

It is important to consider follow up care after you return to your home country and discuss this with your physician before you travel. Individuals should be aware that physicians in other countries do not practice under the same laws as in their home country and therefore seeking legal remedies would be much more difficult and complex should medical negligence occur. 

Medical Tourism in India

India is one of the worlds top destinations for medical travel. Whilst other destinations tend to specialise in one or two areas, India offers the comprehensive solution for the full range of medical and dental needs. Due to India's growing economy and private health care sector there are many world-class hospitals with highly skilled staff and the latest technology and facilities. In the large cities, such as Bangalore, Mumbai, Chennai, New Delhi and Hyderabad, there are many centres which specialise in various types of surgeries, such as joint and heart surgery. These hospitals have excellent pre- and post- surgical care as well as international patient services who can help with arrangements, such as travel and accommodation.

The number of internationally accredited (JCI) medical centres in India has increased rapidly and currently stands at 21, from only 2 in 2005. Unlike other Asian medical tourism destinations, who aggressively recruit specialist physicians from other countries, India produces some of the world's finest physicians and surgeons in it's own excellent teaching hospitals and research centres. Also, whereas in the past, many Indian doctors have emigrated looking for better opportunities, more recently there is a trend for foreign based and trained doctors returning to India.

Potential cost savings, especially for more complex surgeries, are also the greatest in India. Patients can save between 65-90% for many procedures, compared to the cost in the USA.

Even after taking into account associated costs, such as travel, accommodation and visas, patients can still make big savings. The recent fall in the value of the rupee against international currencies has resulted in relatively lower cost for those from abroad. Many patients will also choose India to avoid long waiting times for surgeries in their home countries.

Another advantage for English speaking patients, is that English is widely spoken in India. All doctors and most nurses and other health professionals are trained in English. Those travelling to large cities, where most of the world-class facilities are located, will be able to get around easily using English.

Although the visa process for visiting India has at times been complicated, India will soon be extending visa on arrival to all, barring eight "prior reference" countries including Pakistan, Iran and China.

India is also a popular destination due to its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty and interesting places to visit.

In the next section we will discuss tips and advice for those considering or planning health care overseas.