India is becoming one of the most sought-after low cost, high quality medical destinations in the world, thanks to the twin attractions of low cost and medical expertise on offer.

It's now muscling in on medical outsourcing - where providers supply services to overstretched health care systems in other countries, including Britain.

Medical Visas

The Indian government is to introduce medical visas to encourage the trend and business growth in "medical tourism". Currently visitors who take advantage of the low cost, specialist medical centres require tourist visas that allow a limited stay without extension. The Medical Visas (M-Visa) will be extandable for the treatment period and last up to a year.

Vitiors can apply for visas for a range of treatments including, nano surgery, plastic surgery and heart operations.

The Union Ministries of Tourism and Health and Family Welfare is to develop a website to promote health tourism. Whilst the Government is setting up a National Accreditation Health Board to accredit hospitals and pilot the initiative.

Poor

Meanwhile, India's poor face lengthy waiting lists and sometimes sub-standard local health provision (sounds familiar).

But . . . your need and your wallet. Cheap prices could overrule your conscience and tempt you into forking out for, say, a cataract operation.

In India it could sting you £80 - as opposed to £3,000 here. CHEAP! Other options include private cosmetic surgery.

Related Info

<Back

European Health Insurance Card

Orissa childrens charity

BBC article