Cancer Treatment

Coming to India for Cancer Treatment? - 5 Things to Do Before You Travel

Preparing for medical travel can feel overwhelming. This short explains the most important steps to take before you leave home for cancer treatment in India.

Gather your medical records

A complete and up-to-date medical file is essential for your doctors in India to assess your case.

• Compile everything. Collect all your medical reports. This includes biopsy results, blood tests, and any hospital discharge summaries.
• Get recent scans. Your specialist will need to see recent imaging. This usually means scans taken in the last two to four weeks.
• Share them securely. You will be asked to upload your reports to a secure portal for the medical team to review before you travel.
• Bring physical copies. It is also wise to carry printed copies of your key reports and scans with you when you travel.

Arrange your travel documents

You will need a specific type of visa to receive medical treatment in India.

• Check your passport. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned travel dates.
• Apply for a visa. You and any accompanying person will need a medical visa. This is different from a tourist visa.
• Get a visa invitation. The hospital can provide a visa invitation letter, which is usually required for your application.
• Plan for extensions. Treatment can sometimes take longer than expected. A medical visa can usually be extended from within India if your treatment plan changes.

The information here is for guidance only. Your suitability for any specific treatment can only be decided by a specialist after they have reviewed your case and recent imaging.