Rise of medical tourism in India

India has become a top player in medical tourism, offering affordable and high-quality healthcare. India attracts patients from world over with visionary leaders, government support, and a skilled workforce.

India’s medical tourism market is rapidly pioneering , offering world-class healthcare services at a fraction of the cost compared to Western nations. Supported by cutting-edge medical technology, experts, and affordable care, the healthcare domain is poised for significant growth.

India’s medical tourism industry is estimated to be worth ₹87,050 crore in 2024, with projections indicating an increase to ₹425,630 crore by 2034. The nation’s competitive advantage lies in its ability to provide advanced medical treatments at prices often three times lower than in countries like the US and Europe.

India ranks among the top 10 medical tourism destinations worldwide, with an increasing number of international patients choosing the country for its affordability, efficiency, and quality of care. Crisil estimated 7.3 million medical tourists in 2024, up from 6.1 million in 2023. West Asia accounted for 22.7 percent of medical tourists, followed by Africa at 21.2 percent and South Asia at 19.8 percent. This influx is driven by India’s extensive expertise in specialized areas, including cardiac surgeries, orthopedics, oncology, and organ transplants, making the country an attractive destination for global patients.

With over 1600 NABH-accredited hospitals and a growing list of Joint Commission International (JCI)-accredited facilities, India ensures high standards of healthcare quality. The country offers over 200 medical services, and maintains a strong reputation in cardiac surgery, cosmetic procedures, dental care, and orthopedics.

To further enhance medical value travel, the Government of India launched the Heal in India campaign earlier, aiming to streamline medical tourism through simplified visa processes and dedicated infrastructure. The introduction of a single-window information website and the issuance of over 650,000 medical visas in 2022 are vital initiatives driving the growth of this sector.

Global collaborations, rapid growth
Various international collaborations and the increasing global demand for affordable, yet advanced, healthcare services have driven India’s medical tourism sector. Countries, such as the Maldives, have strategically partnered with India, recognizing the country’s healthcare capabilities as part of broader economic and maritime security agreements. The Maldive citizens frequently seek medical treatments in India, where they benefit from specialized services at a fraction of the cost compared to Western nations. Similarly, the UK has shown a growing interest in collaborating with India on healthcare advancements, further underscoring India’s emerging role in global health partnerships.

The growing collaboration between India and Oman highlights the strength of India’s medical tourism sector. On September 23, 2024, the Embassy of India in Muscat, in association with Malayala Manorama, hosted an India-Oman B2B Meet on Healthcare. The event coincided with the Oman Health Exhibition and Conference (OHEC), and saw participation from 26 leading Indian hospitals. This B2B meeting was a platform for healthcare professionals from both nations to discuss expanding medical tourism and forging stronger partnerships. This collaboration is further strengthened by the short waiting times, streamlined visa processes, and the availability of highly specialized treatments that continue to attract Omani citizens to India for medical care.

Nations from Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East increasingly look to India as a medical hub. India’s ability to offer high-quality procedures – from cardiac surgeries to cosmetic treatments – continues to attract patients from these regions. Hospitals in India are renowned for providing top-tier medical care, combining technological advancements with cost-effectiveness, making the country a preferred destination for medical tourists. The Indian healthcare system is particularly attractive for medical tourists due to its short waiting times and streamlined visa processes, making the journey more convenient for international patients.

Leading hospitals, including Apollo, Fortis, and Manipal, are investing heavily in building a more robust ecosystem to support international patients. These institutions enhance the patient experience by offering comprehensive healthcare packages, including treatment, recovery, and tourism.

In addition to these efforts, India’s global health leadership is recognized in international platforms, such as the World Health Organization (WHO). India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Indra Mani Pandey, has highlighted the country’s contribution to health and well-being on a global scale. These diplomatic efforts further cement India’s reputation as a leading provider of healthcare services, attracting international patients and fostering partnerships with countries looking to strengthen their healthcare systems.

Efforts to expand medical value travel are backed by digital innovations, such as telemedicine platforms, enabling patients to consult with Indian doctors before traveling for treatment. Companies like EaseMyTrip have recognized the growing demand for healthcare travel and have ventured into the medical tourism sector, making it easier for international patients to access India’s healthcare services. The seamless integration of technology into the healthcare experience is strengthening the foundation for India’s medical tourism sector, ensuring it remains competitive on the global stage.

Indian states also invest heavily in infrastructure to support the medical tourism boom. Telangana, for instance, is developing a 1000-acre medical and health tourism hub, while Pune is emerging as a center for organ donation and advanced medical care. India’s consistent ranking on the Medical Tourism Index (MTI), where it holds the 10th position globally, only solidifies its reputation as a medical tourism destination.

Cost-effective treatments and short waiting times drive India’s competitive advantage in medical tourism. For instance, total knee replacement surgery in India can cost ₹29,400–₹75,000, compared to ₹125,000–₹176,000 in the UK and ₹410,000 in the US.

The value-driven factor is coupled with expertise across diverse fields of medicine. Cardiac surgeries, in particular, are a significant draw, with India ranking fourth globally for heart care. The affordability and advanced expertise are critical factors behind India’s success in drawing international patients. Many foreign visitors also opt for India because of its comprehensive approach to healthcare, which includes alternative treatments like Ayurveda and yoga. States such as Kerala, Rishikesh, and Mysuru have carved out wellness tourism niches, attracting people from world over who seek holistic care alongside their medical treatments.

Additionally, establishing over 0.17 million Ayushman Arogya Mandirs and the expansion of AIIMS contribute to improving healthcare access across urban and rural areas.

Government policies and initiatives
The Indian government’s policies and initiatives are crucial in boosting medical tourism and enhancing healthcare infrastructure.

The government’s Make in India campaign has transformed India into a global hub for manufacturing medical devices, and healthcare technology. Additionally, the emphasis on universal healthcare, particularly through schemes like Ayushman Bharat PMJAY, has significantly improved access to affordable healthcare for millions, alleviating the financial burden of medical expenses.

Introducing a risk-based approach for monitoring the quality of imported medical devices ensures that only high-quality products enter the market, thus protecting public health. Additionally, the National Health Accounts (NHA) estimates reflect the government’s increasing investment in healthcare, with public expenditure on health significantly growing. This proactive approach strengthens the healthcare system and enhances India’s reputation as a top destination for medical tourism.

Growth projections for 2024 and beyond
India’s medical tourism industry is crucial in driving economic growth, with projections pointing to sustained expansion in 2024. In 2023, the sector saw a 33-percent year-on-year increase, mainly due to the government’s initiatives, including the e-medical visa, which has facilitated the entry of international patients from 167 countries . The country’s reputation for affordable, yet high-quality, treatments in fields like cardiac surgery and oncology is drawing increasing numbers of foreign patients. The growing medical tourism also boosts employment, healthcare infrastructure, hospitality, and travel sectors. Projections suggest further expansion, supported by improved healthcare services, competitive pricing, and continued investments in healthcare infrastructure.

Telemedicine and remote healthcare’s impact
The rise of digital health, including telemedicine and AI-driven healthcare solutions, is expected to further enhance India’s appeal as a top medical tourism destination, ensuring long-term growth for the sector. This technology addresses logistical barriers by allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely before traveling, ensuring that individuals receive personalized care without unnecessary travel. India, known for its world-class healthcare services, has embraced telemedicine to enhance patient care, making it a critical factor in attracting international medical tourists.

Pre-consultation has become a game-changer in medical tourism. Imagine a patient from the UK seeking affordable cardiac surgery in India. Traditionally, they would need to travel for an initial consultation with a specialist, adding time and expense to the process. With telemedicine, however, they can schedule a pre-consultation video call with a leading cardiologist from a renowned hospital. This allows the doctor to assess medical history, review necessary tests, and even offer a treatment plan without the patient stepping outside their country.

Apollo Hospitals has spearheaded telemedicine services, providing international patients access to its network of specialists for remote consultations. Through its telehealth program, patients can upload their medical records, have virtual meetings with doctors, and receive a detailed medical opinion. This early engagement ensures that patients travel to India fully informed and confident in their chosen treatment plan and hospital.

India’s health diplomacy and global leadership
India’s role in global health leadership has been gaining momentum, leveraging its robust healthcare system, pharmaceutical expertise, and strategic geopolitical positioning. By aligning global health diplomacy with its domestic strengths, India is positioning itself as a significant player in international health governance while attracting international patients, mainly through medical tourism.

One key aspect of India’s global health outreach is its ability to offer affordable, high-quality healthcare. India has actively promoted its medical expertise, advanced hospitals, and cutting-edge technology in cardiac surgery, organ transplants, and orthopedic treatments through diplomatic channels.

India’s diplomatic engagements in global health forums, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and G20, further solidify its leadership. These efforts, focusing on equitable access to healthcare resources and pandemic preparedness, highlight India’s commitment to shaping global health governance. This leadership and an increasingly attractive medical tourism sector enhance India’s stature as a global healthcare hub, drawing patients and expanding its influence in the international health landscape.

Investments and funding in healthcare
India’s healthcare sector is experiencing a surge in investment, particularly from private equity and venture capital, making it an attractive landscape for financial returns and social impact.

Simultaneously, there is a growing emphasis on sustainability, with hospitals shifting to eco-friendly disposables to reduce plastic waste. This transition addresses environmental concerns and attracts patients who value eco-conscious practices.

Digital health solutions, including telemedicine and big data analytics, further reshape the sector, improving patient care and operational efficiency. The combination of government support, robust investments, and innovative start-ups positions India’s healthcare sector for continued growth and success on the global stage.

Challenges and roadblocks
The medical tourism sector faces several key challenges that hinder its growth and sustainability. One of the primary issues is the impact of varying tax policies across countries, which create barriers for medical tourists. High import duties on medical equipment and pharmaceuticals often inflate costs, making treatments less competitive compared to other destinations. Additionally, inconsistent tax regulations may discourage foreign investments in healthcare infrastructure.

Another significant hurdle is inadequate infrastructure, encompassing insufficient healthcare facilities, limited access to transportation, and a lack of supportive services, such as accommodation and logistics. This deficiency can deter potential medical tourists who seek high-quality care and convenient travel options. Furthermore, increasing competition from countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and Turkey poses a challenge, as these destinations offer advanced medical services at competitive prices. They have established strong medical tourism brands and attract patients with well-promoted services and modern healthcare facilities.

Navigating the complex regulatory landscape can also strain healthcare providers, as ensuring compliance with international standards and quality assurance can affect operational efficiency. Moreover, building trust and a positive perception is essential in this sector.

Negative experiences, such as reports of malpractice or substandard care, can significantly impact a destination’s reputation, making potential patients hesitant to choose it for medical treatment. Addressing these challenges is crucial for enhancing the competitiveness of medical tourism and ensuring sustained growth in the sector, especially as regions like Bangladesh grapple with political and economic instability.

Recently, the ongoing political unrest in Bangladesh, which resulted in a dramatic drop in outbound travel, complicated the landscape. With a reported 90-percent decline in travel due to the turmoil surrounding the change of government there , many Bangladeshi patients seeking medical treatment in India faced significant obstacles.

Outlook
The country’s commitment to innovation and patient-centric care ensures that its influence in global medical tourism will only strengthen in the years to come. As international patients continue to seek high-quality treatments at lower costs, India stands ready to meet and exceed their expectations.