India, the birthplace of Ayurveda, is now the most sought-after destination for medical tourists. But today, the Indian healthcare system is no longer bound to Ayurveda only. From plastic surgery to organ transplants, everything is available in this country. It has led to the rapid growth of medical tourism in India. So, India is a global wellness hub for several patients across Africa, Asia, and Western countries. More than a million patients come to India every year for world-class healthcare treatment. Let us talk more about the significant growth of this industry in the country.
The international medical tourism market size is around $80. Indian medical sector has taken different steps and undergone transformations to grab a considerable part of the global market. Many hospitals in India have invested in the latest technology (AI, VR, and Robotics) to provide quality treatments. They employ talented and qualified medical specialists to serve patients from India and abroad.
India has gained a dominating position in the healthcare sphere. Although many Gulf countries have top-rated hospitals, patients from those nations fly to India for high-end treatment. According to an authentic report, the Indian medical tourism market grew by around 111% from 2015 to 2017. Moreover, the Ministry of Home Affairs reported that 4.95 lakh international tourists hit India for healthcare in 2017.
There is an influx of several patients from Maldives, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Yemen, Oman, Sudan, Nigeria, Tanzania, and Kenya. Medical tourists from these nations contributed to 88% of international patients in India. The percentage will be on the rise by 2026.
India has realised that investment is significant in helping wellness tourism in India flourish rapidly. Thoughtful investments will make the Indian healthcare sector more attractive to patients abroad. Foreign patients choose guest houses as accommodation during their stay. However, India is trying to create a better infrastructure. Standardisation is vital in medical tourism, and guest house providers should also maintain the right standards. Another potential source of opportunity is the sale of health insurance to medical tourists. It will lead to an inflow of more international patients.
To boost the profit potential and triple the revenue, the Indian government has suggested an outlay of around US$ 28.7 billion for well-being and health. The budget outlay is 137% higher compared to that of the previous year.
Medical Visa as a special provision
International medical tourists from 165 countries can avail of this VisaVisa to enter India for treatments. In 2014, the government announced e-tourist visas to simplify the visa regime in India. International patients can now take advantage of Medical Attendant Visa.
A feedback system to collect testimonials from medical tourists from different countries
There is a one-step platform to help wellness tourists give feedback conveniently. At the same time, India receives useful information about these travellers.
The country took another initiative known as Heal in India.
Whether you are a foreigner or an Indian patient, you can explore the list of available hospitals in India. Thus, finding the best wellness tourism destinations in India will be easy. The online portal also helps you know various treatment costs and manage visa applications. You can use the portal if you have any complaints about a healthcare provider or medical tourism company in India.
Besides, the initiative provides comprehensive data on healthcare specialists, including pharmacists, nurses, and doctors. Professionals who have registered with the portal can also mention the countries where they like to provide their services. It lets India diversify its healthcare activities and send physicians abroad to treat foreign patients.
The ministry started several campaigns to capture the international markets. Besides, Know India Seminars and roadshows were conducted to increase publicity.
Like the Ministry of Health, the Tourism Ministry has taken other initiatives. It launched Marketing Development Assistance Scheme to help tourism agencies financially. These countries can promote their facilities and services for tourists. Tourism companies can use CDs, brochures, and other marketing resources to reach the target market and promote health tourism. They can distribute their promotional materials electronically or by print.
The ministry promised to offer financial help (in the ratio of 50:50) of up to Rs 10 Lakh. Under the MDA scheme, parties that have participated in the Tourism Ministry-approved events can obtain the fund. Besides, stakeholders involved in tourism promotion events will receive up to Rs 25 lakh as financial assistance. Besides, training programs are available for upgrading skills and obtaining certifications. So, these measures will benefit companies associated with wellness tourism in India.
You might have heard about various grand projects related to wellness tourism. Tulah is a Clinical Wellness Resort (Calicut), is an Rs 800 crore project and has set a standard in the healthcare world. It has brought together high-class medical infrastructure and traditional medicine under one roof.
High success rates and unparalleled skills are the major reasons for the faster growth of medical tourism in India. In fact, Indians believe in the traditional concept known as AtithiDevo Bhava. That is why foreign tourists receive good hospitality in our countries. The medical sector treats these guests in the best way to make the industry more lucrative.
To provide convenience, Dania Medicare Solutions has emerged as one of the reliable medical tourism companies in India. Medical tourists can contact consultants and learn about the best available healthcare services and packages in India. The professional team at Dania Medicare will help you find doctors, lab test centres, and ambulances. So, your medical tour to India will be free from hassles. Even if you have no knowledge about medical destinations, you will not feel confused. You will also be able to locate accommodation and obtain Visa with the help of Dania Medicare.
Written by
Shafiq Ahmad Khan
Founder & CEO
Dania Medicare Solutions Pvt. Ltd.
