Medical tourism, also known as medical value travel, refers to the industry of foreign patients crossing borders for medical, cosmetic, or wellness treatments. India was ranked 10th in the global medical tourism index in mid-2020, with an estimated value of USD 9 billion. The industry generates $6 billion per year from the 2 million patients who travel to India from 78 different countries each year for medical, wellness, and IVF treatments, which is supported by the government’s “Heal in India” initiative. By 2026, the industry is expected to generate $13 billion.
3 Categories of Medical Value Travel to India Available to Foreigners:
1. Curative Medical Treatment: Surgeries, organ transplants, joint replacements, cancer and chronic illness treatments.
2. Wellness & Rejuvenation: Services aimed towards rejuvenation or aesthetic purposes, such as cosmetic surgery, stress alleviation, and spas.
3. Traditional Medicine: The Ministry of AYUSH is responsible for India’s traditional medical systems including Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy.
Here are the Top 5 Destinations in South India for Medical Tourism:
Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Chennai is known as the “health capital of India,” and it is one of the most popular medical treatment destinations in the country, with nearly 40% of patients choosing Chennai for its excellent level of medical care, according to data from the Confederation of Indian Industries. Each year, approximately 200 foreign patients visit Chennai for cardiac bypasses, hip replacements, bone marrow transplants, eye surgeries, and other medical procedures.
Bangalore, Karnataka
Patients seeking the best medical care in India can do so in Bangalore; thanks to medical tourism. People from all over the world travel to Bangalore in search of a relaxing and pleasurable medical experience.
This city provides low-cost treatment options delivered by highly trained medical professionals and research teams.
Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu
Coimbatore has some of the best medical facilities at reasonable prices. They provide a variety of treatment options, including allopathy, and have connections with many reputable hospitals in the city. There are many different practices available, including Siddha, Ayurveda, Unani, Homeopathy, ENT, Wellness, and many more.
Alleppey, Kerala
Alleppey, in Kerala, is yet another popular medical tourism destination. It is popular among international visitors seeking rejuvenation through ayurvedic treatments. Tourists come to enjoy the various therapies and massages provided by this holistic and environmentally-friendly healthcare system.
Vellore, Tamil Nadu
Vellore is another town in Tamil Nadu with a medical tourism reputation. This city has cutting-edge testing facilities as well as world-class medical facilities. Acupuncture, Ayurveda, Unani, Homoeopathy, and allopathic medicine are popular. Furthermore, the Tamil Nadu government has been actively promoting medical tourism in the state.
