MEDICAL TOURISM IN INDIA

 

BY PHILIP CHALIL

Medical tourism in India refers to the practice of people from other countries traveling to India to receive medical treatment at a lower cost or with a higher quality of care than they can find in their home countries. India has become a popular destination for medical tourism due to its combination of affordable healthcare and world-class medical facilities.

Some of the most common medical treatments that people come to India for include heart surgeries, organ transplants, cancer treatments, orthopedic surgeries, and cosmetic surgeries. Many private hospitals in India offer these treatments at a fraction of the cost compared to developed countries like the United States, Canada, or the UK. Additionally, Indian hospitals are equipped with the latest medical technologies, making it an attractive destination for patients seeking high-quality healthcare.

India's medical tourism industry is growing rapidly, with estimates suggesting that it could be worth up to $9 billion by 2020. Many factors contribute to India's success as a medical tourism destination, including its highly trained doctors and nurses, English-speaking staff, and government policies that encourage medical tourism.

However, it is important to note that medical tourism also has its challenges, such as language barriers, differences in cultural expectations, and potential issues with medical malpractice. It is crucial for patients considering medical tourism to do their research and choose a reputable hospital and doctor to ensure the best possible outcome for their treatment.

Medical tourism in KERALAKerala, a state in South India, has emerged as a popular destination for medical tourism in recent years. The state is known for its high-quality healthcare facilities, skilled medical professionals, and affordable medical treatments.Kerala's medical tourism industry is primarily centered around Ayurveda, an ancient system of medicine that originated in India over 5,000 years ago. Ayurveda uses natural remedies, such as herbs, oils, and minerals, to treat a variety of ailments and promote overall well-being. Kerala has a long history of practicing Ayurveda, and its hospitals and clinics offer a range of Ayurvedic treatments, including massage, detoxification, and rejuvenation therapies.In addition to Ayurveda, Kerala is also known for its modern medical facilities, including multi-specialty hospitals and diagnostic centers. The state has a number of internationally accredited hospitals that offer a wide range of medical treatments, including cardiac care, neurology, and orthopedics.Kerala's medical tourism industry has been supported by the state government, which has implemented various policies and initiatives to promote medical tourism. The government has set up a dedicated department to facilitate medical tourism and has launched a certification program for Ayurveda centers to ensure quality and safety standards.

Overall, Kerala's medical tourism industry offers a unique blend of ancient and modern medical practices, making it an attractive destination for patients seeking holistic and affordable medical treatments. However, as with any medical tourism destination, it is important for patients to do their research and choose a reputable hospital or clinic to ensure the best possible outcome for their treatment.