Medical Travel

Medical Travel to India - Hidden Costs You Should Budget For

Planning your budget for treatment in India involves more than just the hospital bill. This short explains some common costs that are easy to overlook.

Costs before you travel

• Medical reports. You may need to pay for recent scans or a summary of your medical history from your local doctor before a specialist in India can review your case.
• Visas and flights. Remember to include the cost of a medical visa for yourself and a companion, as well as flights and any travel insurance.
• Local consultations. Some patients choose to get a second opinion locally before deciding to travel, which has its own cost.

Costs during your stay in India

• Extended stay. Recovery can sometimes take longer than planned. It is wise to budget for a few extra days or weeks of accommodation for you and your companion.
• Extra tests. Your surgeon may require additional diagnostic tests upon your arrival to finalise your treatment plan.
• Daily expenses. The cost of local transport, food, and other daily needs can add up over several weeks.
• Take-home items. Your initial quote may not include take-home medications, dressings, or mobility aids like crutches.

Costs after you return home

• Follow-up care. You will need to arrange for follow-up appointments with a local doctor to monitor your recovery or remove stitches.
• Rehabilitation. Some procedures require physiotherapy or other forms of rehabilitation. You should plan for the cost of this care in your home country.
• Further medication. You may need to continue taking prescription medication for some time after your treatment is complete.

The final cost of your medical travel depends on your specific treatment plan and personal circumstances. A specialist can provide a detailed estimate only after reviewing your medical reports and recent imaging.