Invaluable Insights into Medical Tourism in India (2023-24)

medical tourism in india
Table Of Contents
  1. Medical Tourism in India: A Global Hub for Healthcare
  2. The Rise of Wellness Tourism in India
  3. Top Medical Tourism Hospitals in India
  4. Top 10 Medical Tourism Companies in India
  5. The National Strategy and Roadmap for Medical and Wellness Tourism
  6. Valuable Links for Further Information

Medical Tourism in India: A Global Hub for Healthcare

Medical tourism in India has rapidly emerged as a premier destination, combining cutting-edge medical treatments with traditional holistic healing practices. With the growing global demand for curative and preventive healthcare, India’s medical tourism sector is witnessing unprecedented growth. Approximately 2 million patients from 78 countries visit India each year for medical, wellness, and IVF treatments, with significant numbers hailing from Australia, Canada, China, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

To support this expansion, the Indian government has implemented various initiatives, including the expansion of its e-tourism visa regime in February 2019, allowing a maximum stay of 6 months. Since August 30, 2019, foreigners have been able to receive most medical treatments in India, excluding organ transplants, without requiring a medical visa. In August 2023, the Ministry of Home Affairs introduced the Ayush Visa category to further promote travel healthcare.

India is known for providing high-quality medical care at a fraction of the cost compared to Western countries like the United States and the United Kingdom. Medical tourists save significantly, with treatments costing up to 10 times less than in other parts of the world. Popular medical procedures in India include:

  • Alternative medicine therapies
  • Bone marrow transplant
  • Cardiac bypass surgery
  • Eye surgery
  • Joint replacement surgeries

This affordability, coupled with India’s excellence in healthcare, has made the country one of the top destinations for medical tourism.

Chennai has gained recognition as “India’s health capital,” featuring multi- and super-specialty hospitals that cater to a growing number of international patients. As India continues to capitalize on its strengths in advanced medical care and traditional wellness practices, it remains an attractive option for those seeking quality healthcare at competitive prices.

Key Drivers of Medical Tourism in India

  1. Affordability and Cost-effectiveness
    One of the primary reasons foreign patients choose India for medical care is the significant cost savings. The cost of treatments, such as cardiac surgery, orthopedic procedures, and cancer treatments, in India is a fraction of what patients would pay in Western countries like the United States, Canada, or the United Kingdom. Despite the affordability, Indian hospitals maintain the same level of medical expertise and technological advancements found in the best hospitals worldwide.
  2. World-class Healthcare Infrastructure
    India boasts a network of accredited medical tourism hospitals in India equipped with cutting-edge technology and staffed by internationally trained doctors. Renowned institutions such as Apollo Hospitals, Fortis Healthcare, and Medanta Medicity are leading providers in the field. These hospitals are recognized globally for their medical excellence and high success rates, further cementing India’s reputation as a preferred destination for medical tourism.
  3. Specialized Treatments and Advanced Procedures
    India has made significant advancements in specialized treatments, offering procedures like heart surgery, organ transplants, fertility treatments, and oncology care at a global standard. Patients from countries where these treatments are either unavailable or prohibitively expensive find India’s healthcare system to be an excellent alternative. With a focus on personalized care and cutting-edge treatments, Indian hospitals are often the preferred choice for critical medical procedures.
  4. Global Recognition: India promotes medical tourism under the Incredible India campaign, with targeted international marketing across various platforms. This strategic promotion highlights India’s potential as a hub for both medical and wellness treatments​(MOT Annual Report_2023-24).

The Rise of Wellness Tourism in India

medical tourism in india

While medical tourism in India predominantly focuses on curative treatments, there has also been a significant rise in wellness tourism in India. This sector appeals to individuals seeking holistic and preventive healthcare solutions, leveraging India’s rich heritage of Ayurveda, yoga, and naturopathy. Tourists are drawn to wellness retreats that offer personalized wellness programs aimed at promoting physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

Alongside medical tourism in India, the country’s wellness tourism sector is thriving. India has long been a center for holistic wellness practices, including Ayurveda, yoga, and naturopathy. These ancient systems of healing focus on preventive care and enhancing overall well-being, making wellness tourism in India an integral part of the country’s healthcare offerings.

Holistic Wellness Resorts
Resorts offering a blend of traditional wellness practices and modern spa treatments are increasingly popular among international tourists. These wellness resorts provide customized programs, focusing on detoxification, rejuvenation, weight loss, and stress management, creating an ideal environment for healing and relaxation.

Ayurveda
As a 5,000-year-old system of natural healing, Ayurveda focuses on the balance of body, mind, and spirit. Visitors to India flock to Kerala, Goa, and other regions known for their Ayurveda centers, where they undergo treatments like detoxification, stress relief, and rejuvenation therapies.

Yoga and Meditation
India is the birthplace of yoga, and wellness seekers from around the world come to deepen their practice at yoga retreats and ashrams. Locations like Rishikesh and Mysore are popular for their authentic yoga teachings, offering retreats that combine spiritual awakening with physical and mental well-being.

These therapies, combined with the latest medical advancements, offer a unique blend of traditional and modern healthcare options.

Top Wellness Centers:

Ananda in the Himalayas – Rishikesh:

Somatheeram Ayurvedic Health Resort – Kerala:

Vana Wellness Retreat – Dehradun:

India’s thriving medical and wellness tourism industry provides a unique combination of affordable medical treatments and ancient holistic healing practices, making it an attractive destination for those seeking both physical and spiritual healing.

Top Medical Tourism Hospitals in India

India’s healthcare landscape is home to some of the best hospitals for medical tourism in India, offering top-notch medical services in fields like oncology, cardiology, and neurology. Some of the leading hospitals include:

1. All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi

AIIMS Delhi is one of India’s most prestigious medical institutions, recognized globally for its excellence in healthcare services and cutting-edge medical research. Established in 1956, AIIMS has become a center of excellence, providing high-quality healthcare across a range of specialties.

The hospital is particularly known for its services in cardiology, neurosurgery, oncology, and orthopedics. AIIMS has a strong international reputation for handling complex surgeries and treatments at highly competitive prices, making it an attractive option for medical tourists.

  • Key Services: Cardiothoracic Surgery, Organ Transplants, Oncology, Neurology
  • Contact: +91-11-2658-8500
  • Location: New Delhi
  • Website: AIIMS Delhi

2. Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore

CMC Vellore is one of India’s oldest and most respected medical institutions. With a history dating back to 1900, CMC Vellore has consistently been at the forefront of healthcare in India. The hospital is renowned for its expertise in neurosciences, hematology, nephrology, and cardiology.

CMC Vellore attracts a significant number of international patients each year, thanks to its affordable pricing and high success rates in complex surgeries. The hospital also provides exceptional post-operative care, ensuring that patients return to their countries with a positive experience.

  • Key Services: Oncology, Cardiac Care, Neurology, Organ Transplants
  • Contact: +91-416-228-1000
  • Location: Vellore, Tamil Nadu
  • Website: CMC Vellore

3. Apollo Hospitals, Chennai

Apollo Hospitals, Chennai, is one of India’s largest and most trusted healthcare providers, known for its pioneering work in medical tourism. Established in 1983, Apollo has grown to become a leader in multi-specialty care, offering a broad range of medical treatments.

The hospital is particularly known for its advanced treatments in oncology, cardiology, neurosurgery, and orthopedics. Apollo was one of the first hospitals in India to introduce robotic surgery, and it regularly performs complex surgeries, drawing patients from over 120 countries.

  • Key Services: Oncology, Cardiology, Neurosurgery, Robotic Surgery
  • Contact: +91-44-2829-3333
  • Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
  • Website: Apollo Hospitals Chennai

4. Fortis Healthcare, New Delhi

Fortis Healthcare is another top healthcare provider in India, known for its world-class facilities and specialized services. The Fortis Escorts Heart Institute in New Delhi is a leader in cardiovascular care, offering treatments for a wide range of heart diseases.

Apart from cardiology, Fortis is highly regarded for its expertise in oncology, neurology, and orthopedics. The hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including robotic surgery and minimally invasive procedures, ensuring top-notch care for its international patients.

  • Key Services: Cardiology, Orthopedics, Neurology, Oncology
  • Contact: +91-11-4713-4444
  • Location: New Delhi
  • Website: Fortis Healthcare

5. Max Super Specialty Hospital, New Delhi

Max Super Specialty Hospital in New Delhi is another premier healthcare destination for international patients, offering comprehensive medical services across multiple specialties. The hospital is equipped with cutting-edge medical technologies and highly skilled professionals, providing top-tier care in oncology, cardiology, nephrology, and organ transplants.

Max Healthcare has dedicated teams to assist international patients throughout the treatment process, from arranging visas to ensuring post-treatment follow-up.

  • Key Services: Oncology, Nephrology, Cardiology, Organ Transplants
  • Contact: +91-11-2651-5050
  • Location: New Delhi
  • Website: Max Healthcare

6. BLK-Max Super Specialty Hospital, New Delhi

BLK-Max Super Specialty Hospital is known for its world-class treatment options in oncology, cardiology, and bone marrow transplants. It is one of the most advanced hospitals in India, featuring state-of-the-art infrastructure and highly skilled doctors.

International patients are drawn to BLK-Max for its affordable treatment options and high success rates in complex procedures, including liver transplants and organ transplantation.

  • Key Services: Oncology, Cardiology, Bone Marrow Transplants, Liver Transplants
  • Contact: +91-11-3040-3040
  • Location: New Delhi
  • Website: BLK-Max Hospital

7. Global Hospitals, Chennai

Global Hospitals in Chennai is another top choice for international patients, especially for those seeking liver transplants and gastroenterology treatments. The hospital is known for its expertise in organ transplantation and has performed some of the most complex surgeries in India.

The hospital provides world-class treatment at competitive prices, making it a preferred destination for patients looking for affordable yet high-quality medical care.

  • Key Services: Organ Transplants, Gastroenterology, Cardiology, Oncology
  • Contact: +91-44-4477-7000
  • Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
  • Website: Global Hospitals

8. Manipal Hospitals, Bangalore

Manipal Hospitals is a trusted name in healthcare, offering a wide range of medical treatments for international patients. With a focus on personalized care, Manipal Hospitals in Bangalore is known for its expertise in cardiology, neurology, oncology, and organ transplants.

The hospital’s international patient services team ensures a smooth experience from consultation to follow-up, making it a top choice for patients worldwide.

  • Key Services: Cardiology, Neurology, Oncology, Organ Transplants
  • Contact: +91-80-2222-1111
  • Location: Bangalore, Karnataka
  • Website: Manipal Hospitals

9. Columbia Asia Hospital, Bangalore

Columbia Asia Hospital in Bangalore offers high-quality care in orthopedics, urology, oncology, and cardiology. The hospital provides affordable treatments for international patients, along with personalized care to ensure a comfortable experience.

Columbia Asia’s international patient services team handles everything from travel arrangements to post-treatment follow-up, making the process seamless for medical tourists.

  • Key Services: Orthopedics, Urology, Oncology, Cardiology
  • Contact: +91-80-6165-6565
  • Location: Bangalore, Karnataka
  • Website: Columbia Asia Hospital

10. Narayana Health, Bangalore

Narayana Health is known for its excellence in cardiac care and oncology treatments, making it a popular choice for international patients. The hospital is renowned for offering affordable yet high-quality healthcare, with a focus on heart surgeries and organ transplants.

Narayana Health also offers services in pediatrics and other specialties, ensuring comprehensive care for its patients.

  • Key Services: Cardiac Surgery, Oncology, Organ Transplants, Pediatrics
  • Contact: +91-80-2783-5000
  • Location: Bangalore, Karnataka
  • Website: Narayana Health

Top 10 Medical Tourism Companies in India

medical tourism in india

India’s rise in medical tourism has been supported by several companies that provide seamless services for international patients. These companies manage everything from medical consultations to visa facilitation, accommodation, and post-treatment care. Here are some of the top medical tourism companies in India:

1. Yapita Health

  • Offers customized healthcare services, from initial consultations to post-treatment care.
  • Contact Details:

2. Vaidam

  • Known for its comprehensive offerings, Vaidam helps patients make informed decisions on treatment by guiding them through hospital selection, travel arrangements, and essential services.
  • Contact Details:

3. Clinicspots

  • Clinicspots is known for providing easy access to specialized treatments, including cardiology, cosmetic surgery, and orthopedics. It offers a user-friendly platform that simplifies the healthcare journey for medical tourists.
  • Contact Details:

4. Go Medii

  • Go Medii personalizes medical tourism experiences, offering solutions tailored to the specific requirements of international patients. It assists with every aspect, from language interpretation to visa support.
  • Contact Details:

5. Medsurge

  • Medsurge offers a broad selection of treatments across various medical fields. The company provides detailed information on procedures, helping patients choose the right healthcare providers and compare treatment options.
  • Contact Details:

6. Credihealth

  • Credihealth’s mission is to deliver quality care at affordable prices. Their team of experts ensures personalized attention, guiding patients through every step of their healthcare journey in India.
  • Contact Details:

7. HealthTrip

  • HealthTrip specializes in assisting in the treatment process, offering patients support and resources from their initial inquiries to post-procedure care.
  • Contact Details:

8. Lyfboat

  • Lyfboat connects patients with top hospitals and doctors in India. Its platform ensures a hassle-free medical tourism experience, handling everything from treatment planning to follow-up care.
  • Contact Details:

9. Edha Care

  • Edha Care partners with leading hospitals to offer high-quality, reasonably priced medical care. Their focus is on patient safety and satisfaction, ensuring a seamless experience for international patients.
  • Contact Details:

10. Mediconnect

  • Mediconnect offers a wide range of healthcare services, ensuring transparency, affordability, and high-quality care across multiple medical specialties.
  • Contact Details:

India continues to be a popular destination for medical tourism due to its advanced healthcare facilities, skilled professionals, and affordable treatment options. These companies play a crucial role in facilitating a smooth experience for international patients, making it easier for them to access high-quality healthcare.

The National Strategy and Roadmap for Medical and Wellness Tourism

The Ministry of Tourism has unveiled a comprehensive National Strategy and Roadmap for Medical and Wellness Tourism to enhance India’s position as a premier destination for international patients. This strategy outlines several key pillars to promote medical tourism effectively:

Key Pillars of the National Strategy

  1. Brand Development for India as a Wellness Destination
    Establishing a robust brand identity for India that highlights its unique wellness offerings, including traditional practices such as Ayurveda and yoga.
  2. Strengthening the Medical and Wellness Tourism Ecosystem
    Enhancing infrastructure, healthcare facilities, and services to create a supportive environment for medical tourists.
  3. Digitalization Initiatives
    Launching an Online Medical Value Travel (MVT) Portal to streamline the process for international patients seeking medical treatment in India.
  4. Enhancing Accessibility for Medical Value Travel
    Improving transport and connectivity options to make it easier for patients to access medical services across the country.
  5. Promoting Wellness Tourism
    Fostering awareness and interest in wellness tourism, encompassing holistic treatments, retreats, and wellness-focused travel packages.
  6. Governance and Institutional Framework
    Establishing a structured governance framework to oversee and regulate the medical tourism sector effectively.

The Medical Value Travel (MVT) Portal

medical tourims in india

The Services Export Promotion Council is set to revamp its existing Medical Value Travel (MVT) Portal to create a comprehensive platform that streamlines the entire medical journey for international patients seeking healthcare in India. This upgraded portal aims to facilitate the exploration, planning, and booking of services, payments, and post-operative care, ensuring a smooth experience for medical tourists. You can access the portal at MVT Portal.

Key Features of the Revamped MVT Portal

  1. User Accounts for Stakeholders
    The portal will provide dedicated login accounts for all industry stakeholders, including:
    • Immigration authorities
    • Government bodies
    • Service providers
    • Facilitators
    • Insurance companies/TPAs
    • International patients
  2. Data Capture and Management
    It will capture essential data about international patients and services provided by facilitators and hospitals, enabling better oversight and regulation within the industry.
  3. Streamlined Marketing Initiatives
    The portal will assist the government in effectively promoting registered players and branding initiatives, enhancing visibility for medical tourism services.
  4. Regulatory Compliance
    The revamped portal will facilitate stringent regulation maintenance, ensuring compliance across the MVT sector.
  5. User Experience Ratings
    A rating system will be implemented based on user feedback, providing transparency and helping patients make informed choices regarding facilitators.

Benefits of the MVT Portal for International Patients

  • Formalization of the Industry
    The portal will assist in the formalization of medical tourism in India, establishing a robust framework for operations.
  • Effective Regulation Enforcement
    With enhanced oversight, the portal will effectively enforce regulations and policies within the sector.
  • Boosting Industry Growth
    The MVT Portal is expected to catalyze industry growth, resulting in significant foreign exchange earnings.
  • Reduced Illegal Operations
    The initiative will help minimize the presence of illegal operators within the medical tourism industry.
  • Improved Healthcare Services
    International patients will benefit from better healthcare service offerings, ensuring quality treatment options.
  • Comprehensive Support for Patients
    Serving as a one-stop solution, the portal will streamline the entire process for foreign patients seeking medical treatment in India.
  • Focused Government and Industry Efforts
    The portal will concentrate efforts on branding, marketing, institutional partnerships, and investments to promote medical tourism in India effectively.
  • Enhanced Data Analysis
    The portal will improve data capturing, allowing for insightful analyses that inform strategic decisions.
  • Integrated Payment System
    A payment system will be implemented on the portal, reducing the risk of default and simplifying financial transactions for patients.

Visa Policies for Medical and Wellness Tourists

Visa policies play a crucial role in facilitating the movement of international medical and wellness tourists into India. The government has introduced specialized visas that streamline the process and allow for greater flexibility based on the needs of each traveler.

Medical Visa (MED-1)

  • This visa is designed for individuals seeking medical treatment in India.
  • Duration: Initially valid for 60 days with a triple-entry option, allowing patients to leave and re-enter the country as needed during treatment.
  • Extension: Based on medical necessity, patients can extend their stay for up to 6 months, subject to approval by the FRRO​(MOT Annual Report_2023-24).

Medical Attendant Visa (MED-2)

  • Attendants accompanying the patient on a Medical Visa can apply for the Medical Attendant Visa.
  • The attendant visa is a co-terminus with the Medical Visa and allows multiple entries during the treatment period​(MOT Annual Report_2023-24).

AYUSH Visa

  • The AYUSH Visa is specifically designed for individuals seeking holistic treatments in accredited AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy) centers.
  • Duration: The e-AYUSH Visa is valid for up to 60 days with a triple-entry option, allowing wellness tourists to re-enter the country for extended treatments or follow-up therapies​(MOT Annual Report_2023-24)​.

AYUSH Attendant Visa

Similar to the Medical Attendant Visa, this visa is for those accompanying wellness tourists undergoing treatments at AYUSH centers. It is valid for the same duration as the AYUSH Visa​(MOT Annual Report_2023-24).

Government Initiatives and Global Promotion

The Indian government is actively involved in promoting both medical and wellness tourism through several initiatives:

National Medical and Wellness Tourism Board: To ensure a streamlined approach to growing these sectors, the Indian government has set up the National Medical and Wellness Tourism Board. This board plays a pivotal role in regulating the industry, creating a robust institutional framework, and ensuring quality standards are met​(MOT Annual Report_2023-24).

Incredible India Campaign: Under the “Incredible India” umbrella, medical and wellness tourism is promoted globally through digital, print, and electronic media. These campaigns highlight India’s strengths in both modern medicine and traditional holistic healing, positioning the country as a premier health and wellness destination​(MOT Annual Report_2023-24).

Valuable Links for Further Information

India is uniquely positioned as a global leader in both medical and wellness tourism, offering a mix of advanced medical treatments and ancient holistic therapies at competitive prices. With a strong national strategy, digital initiatives like the MVT Portal, and government support, India is making significant strides in catering to international health and wellness travelers. The seamless integration of visa processes and digital platforms ensures that medical and wellness tourists can focus on their treatments and well-being, with all logistical aspects taken care of.

Hospital Blogs

Best Government Neurology Hospital in India: Comprehensive Guide to Top Neurology Hospitals

India is globally recognized for its exceptional healthcare facilities, offering some of the best government neurology hospitals in India and equally impressive private institutions. Neurology, a specialized field that addresses disorders of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves, requires world-class expertise. The top neurology hospitals in India provide affordable, advanced treatment options, attracting patients from […]

Hospital Blogs

AIIMS Raipur Hospital: 100% Top Facilities & Expert Care

AIIMS Raipur Hospital, a leading institute under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, serves as a medical college and research university in Raipur, Chhattisgarh. Founded in 2012, it provides advanced medical care and training under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojna (PMSSY) to make top-quality healthcare accessible to all. History and Establishment AIIMS Raipur […]

Hospital Blogs

AIIMS Hospital Raebareli: 100% Top Facilities & Expert Care

AIIMS Hospital Raebareli, established under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY) in 2009, is a premier medical institution in Uttar Pradesh. With an approved cost of Rs. 823 crore, it was set up on 97 acres of government-transferred land, while an additional 51 acres are pending acquisition. Mentorship and Vision Managed by PGIMER Chandigarh […]

Most Read this week

1 thought on “Invaluable Insights into Medical Tourism in India (2023-24)”

  1. Pingback: Wellness Tourism in India: A Comprehensive Overview -

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

© 2024 Govhospitals. All rights reserved

Stay Updated on Government Healthcare and Medical Tourism in India!

Subscribe with your email to receive the latest news on government hospitals, healthcare facilities, and medical tourism opportunities across India. Join our community for expert insights and updates!