Medical Tourism 2012_Page1-11_Layout 1 14-10-2016 18:46 Page 3
For Prompt, Proper and Economic Medical Care – India is the Destination There’s nothing more important than good health – that’s our principal capital asset. Today more and more people in developed countries as well as developing ones are living longer. There's an unprecedented lengthening of our lives. But mere length is not enough. We all want better health too. In Britain and other developed countries – heart, kidney, knee, cancer and other serious health problems seemed almost incurable a few decades ago. However, today things have changed for the better, thanks to better personal care and facilities available in hospitals and private medical centres. Almost all such health problems can be tackled well if proper treatment is taken on time. In the UK the National Health Service (NHS) is, in spite of the various challenges and limitations, rendering a spectacular service. In the US and some other countries, health insurance is paramount. In the NHS, however, the supply side has failed to keep up with rapid growth in demand for better and quick service. The lack of resources, trained personnel, enough number of beds, etc. compels the NHS to delay or defer the treatment, which is not only harmful to patients physically but also affects their overall wellness. Such patients need immediate care. Private treatment is possible, but it comes at a price. For the uninsured it is an expensive affair here compared to other alternatives abroad. There are many countries which are becoming a popular destination for medical tourism – the practice of travelling abroad to receive medical treatment. China, India and some countries in the Middle East and Asia have their own attractions. But India is comparatively better placed among such nations. The quality of healthcare, affordability and access to care in reputable hospitals in India are comparable to the standards available in developed societies. Another aspect where India has an edge over others is English language. The availability of English speaking personnel in India makes the country a preferred choice for health tourism.
CB Comment
The added attraction for the approximately 25 million Indian diaspora to avail of medical care in India is the advantage of being treated in a familiar or well-acquainted environment – that of culture, tradition, language, diet, or for that matter social connectivity too has its own value.The present medical tourism market in India valued over $3 billion is likely to reach $7 to $8 billion by 2020. The Indian Journal of Medical Ethics is aware that if India wishes to develop this type of “exports” which can also earn the country enormous goodwill, the standards must be continuously developed and maintained. Most states in India, especially Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Delhi, Punjab, Gujarat and Karnataka, are focusing to develop what is commonly called health tourism. Both national and regional authorities must ensure that there is no shortchange in services. Sometimes, thankfully very seldom, we hear about cavalier or cowboyish attempt to make illegal money out of it. This is not acceptable. Professionally-run hospitals should acknowledge and understand their responsibility and they must take care that commercial considerations do not outweigh the core responsibilities. I am delighted to present our special Medical Tourism magazine, which is full of useful information. I also appreciate the support of the sponsors and advertisers, and acknowledge the hard work put in by the ABPL team
Yours Sincerly, CB Patel Publisher/Editor www.abplgroup.com
Gujarat Samachar & Asian Voice
3