Global Health on the Move: The Rapid Growth of Medical Tourism
Medical tourism isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a booming global industry. With rising healthcare costs, long wait times, and aging populations, patients are packing their bags and flying across borders in search of timely, affordable, and quality medical care.
The global medical tourism market is expected to hit $180–200 billion by 2030, and India is at the heart of this surge. In 2023 alone, over 2 million international patients travelled to India for medical treatment, a number that continues to climb every year.
Beyond Borders: Which Countries Are Hotspots for Medical Travel?
While several countries are popular among medical tourists—including Thailand, Turkey, Mexico, and Costa Rica—India stands out as a top-tier healthcare destination, especially for Canadians.
Incredible India: Why It’s a Global Medical Magnet
India has rapidly become a favorite among international patients for several compelling reasons. Here’s what makes it shine:
- Affordable Without Compromising Quality
Medical procedures in India are 60–80% cheaper than in Canada or the U.S., often including full treatment packages with accommodation, medication, and aftercare.
- Globally Trained Doctors
India is home to world-renowned specialists, many of whom have trained in North America or Europe and speak fluent English.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities
Indian hospitals like Apollo, Fortis, Max, and Medanta are JCI-accredited and equipped with advanced medical technology.
- No Waiting, Just Healing
Forget waitlists. In India, treatments are available within days, giving patients faster access to life-changing procedures.
- A Touch of Tradition
India uniquely offers integrative care, combining Western medicine with Ayurvedic healing, yoga, and wellness therapies—perfect for a complete mind-body recovery.
The Paper Trail: Visa & Eligibility for Canadians
Canada is one of the countries eligible for India’s Medical Visa (M-Visa) and e-Medical Visa programs.
Requirements include:
- A valid passport (6+ months remaining)
- A confirmed appointment with an Indian hospital
- A referral letter from a Canadian doctor (recommended)
- Online visa application via the Indian visa website
Good to know:
The Medical Visa is typically valid for 6 months, extendable in special cases You can be accompanied by up to two attendants, each on a Medical Attendant (MX) Visa
The e-Medical Visa allows quick, paperless application and approval within days
Dollar-Saving Surgery: What’s the Cost in India?
One of the biggest reasons Canadians choose India for medical treatment is the significant cost savings.
For example, a knee or hip replacement, which can cost between $20,000 to $35,000 CAD in Canada, is typically available in India for just $6,000 to $8,000 CAD, including hospitalization and surgery.
Similarly, open heart surgery for $7,000 to $10,000 CAD instead of $40,000 to $60,000 CAD in Canada, Dental implants for just $800 to $1,200 CAD instead of $3,000 to $5,000 CAD
The Numbers Don’t Lie: Medical Tourism in India
India’s medical tourism industry is valued at around $6 billion, with projections hitting $13 billion by 2026. Over 2 million international patients received treatment in India in 2023 alone—many from Canada, the U.S., the UK, Africa, and the Middle East.
Ready to Heal? India Awaits
From advanced surgeries to holistic healing, India offers a compelling alternative to the delays and costs faced by many Canadians. Whether you’re seeking quality care, quick access, or cost-effective options, medical tourism in India could be your passport to better health.
Written By Isbah Shabih