India is one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, which has transformed itself into a regional hub for medical tourism. Kuwaiti citizens visiting India is on the rise. Affordable medical care, superior medical technology, and the availability of highly experienced healthcare experts have made India a popular destination for Kuwaiti people seeking medical treatment overseas. In this blog, we will consider the various factors that why Kuwaiti patients choose India for medical treatment.
A 2010 report published in The Times of India states that Kuwaiti citizens who came to India for various medical surgeries exceeded 10,000. And this includes:
- Cardiac
- Spinal
- Cosmetic
- Other related surgery
Why do Kuwaiti Patients Choose India for Medical Treatment?
Patients come to India for various reasons. Some of the common grounds are highlighted below:
Cost-Effectiveness
Affordable healthcare cost is the main reason for Kuwaiti nationals to visit the country. A higher disposable income makes services expensive in Kuwait.
In India, medical services cost 70% less than in comparison to most developed countries. Considering an example, a cardiac bypass or organ transplant treatment is more affordable, that allow patients to receive high-quality care without the financial burden.
High-Quality Medical Care
Several government and private hospitals operate in the country. These are internationally accredited and equipped with top-notch medical technology. Cities like Chennai, Delhi, and Mumbai are renowned for their world-class healthcare facilities. Indian doctors are highly qualified, and many of them have trained abroad. Once they return, they bring along with them the latest technical knowledge and know-how that ensures the medical services are at par with the world level.
Minimally invasive techniques are a part and parcel of Indian medical centers that include:
- Robotic surgeries, modern radiation therapy machines.
Kuwaiti patients have gained the trust of Indian healthcare providers for their high standards and medical safety.
Highly Skilled Medical Doctors
As India is known for its medical institutions and establishments, the doctors passing out from these institutions are thorough in their knowledge. Many doctors go to the United States or other developed nations for advanced degrees to enhance their knowledge and bring back the potential benefits of their knowledge. As per the Best Doctors Ranking of 2024 (BScholarly), Indian doctors rank second on the list.
Cultural and Linguistic Affinity
A historical trade and cultural exchange between the two countries has brought about friendly relations between them. And with the extensive use of English language in Indian medical institutions, it facilitates effective communication and a comfortable experience for the Kuwaiti nationals. This cultural and linguistic compatibility helps in reducing any potential barriers for different medical treatments.
Comprehensive Support Services
Many medical centers in India offer dedicated service for foreign patients. Normally many hospitals have a tie-up with medical tourism companies. And this helps in facilitating the patients. Such a partnership streamlines the process for patients who offer:
- Assistance with travel, accommodation, visa arrangements, language translation, and navigating the healthcare system.
Shorter Waiting Time
India has many hospitals, including private and government ones. Private medical centers provide:
- A shorter waiting time and
- Services on an urgent basis.
The above parameters cannot be ignored. In India, people can quickly get an appointment with a doctor. And some doctors do not hesitate to accept walk-in appointments.
Medical Visa
As India and Kuwait have friendly relations between them, patients can easily obtain the medical visa or MED. Medical Attendant Visa or MED-X for the companion is easy to procure. A referral letter from the Kuwaiti hospital or an invitation letter from the Indian hospital is a must for the visa. Normally, the visa is valid for six to twelve months.
Most Popular Medical Treatments for Kuwaiti Patients in India
India with its availability of highly experienced doctors and a favorable climate in the country makes it a preferred destination for the citizens of Kuwait. Below are some of the treatments Kuwaitis opt for:
Cardiovascular Care
Heart surgery, angioplasty, stent placement, and heart valve replacements are preferred treatments by Kuwaiti citizens. Medical centers that include Apollo, Fortis, and Max Healthcare have top-notch facilities for such advanced treatment.
Oncology Treatment
The Tata Memorial Centre and AIIMS Delhi are medical centers that offer outstanding cancer treatment facilities. Kuwaiti patients that came to India for medical surgery in 2019 exceeded 10,000. This shows the faith the people of Kuwait have in Indian doctors.
Orthopedics
Minimally invasive to joint replacements, spinal surgeries, arthroscopy, and trauma care are available at a reasonable price. Total knee replacement, hip replacement, spine surgery, and sports injury treatment are some common medical surgeries that Arab citizens prefer in India.
Neurosurgery
India is host to a number of neurosurgeons. It is home to some of the finest medical establishments. These medical specialists are competent enough to perform complex brain and spine surgeries. A significant factor to consider affordability and reasonable price is what patients expect from a medical surgery. And this helps the country in gaining a favorable spot in medical tourism. The National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) typically deals with neuro-related cases. And All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) is a noted comprehensive medical establishment.
Organ Transplants
Organ transplants in 2023 exceeded 18,378, and this number is on the rise. An advanced medical know-how and use of the latest machines makes this procedure more popular. Gleneagles Global Hospitals and Apollo Hospitals are reputed medical centers that have successfully operated multi-organ transplants.
Fertility Treatments
Assisted reproductive technology is a high-demand sector in the country. Affordable prices and world-class fertility centers in India make Kuwaitis choose India. In vitro fertilization (IVF) and surrogacy as two main advanced medical surgeries, they prefer.
Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery
Indian cosmetic surgeons offer rhinoplasty, liposuction, breast augmentation surgery, and facelifts, among other procedures. India, a host to multicultural communities and different religions, is a preferred destination for Kuwaiti nationals. It is to be noted that plastic surgery in some Middle Eastern countries is a costly procedure.
Dental care
Dental care includes dental implants, root canals, and cosmetic dentistry. Cost-saving measures combined with medical tourism boost the economy of India.
Conclusion
India is a leading destination for Kuwaiti patients seeking excellent medical treatments. We explore all the factors that why Kuwaiti patients choose India for medical treatment. India is an attractive choice because of its affordable costs, highly skilled doctors, and advanced healthcare infrastructure. You should try exploring India as a country for different medical conditions. And to make the journey safe, successful, and enjoyable.
