India’s Medical Tourism Industry Poised for Growth with Unified National Policy

India’s medical tourism sector is at a crossroads, with experts calling for a unified national policy to streamline the fragmented industry and attract more international patients. During the Heal India Medical and Wellness Tourism Summit 2025, held on July 18, experts highlighted the critical need for a single-window platform that integrates the country’s healthcare services. The summit’s focus was clear: to establish India as a global leader in medical tourism through innovative policies, quality standards, and enhanced patient experiences.

The medical tourism sector in India is currently highly fragmented, with six ministries and multiple sectors involved, making it challenging for international patients to navigate. As the sector continues to grow, creating a seamless and standardized experience is essential to improve India’s competitive position on the global stage.

Experts Call for Standardized National Policies for Medical Tourism

At the heart of the summit was a call for a unified national policy to ensure consistent quality and patient satisfaction. Dr. Sunil Khetarpal, Director of the Association of Healthcare Providers (India), emphasized the need for a standard system that could provide a unified experience for patients traveling from across the globe. By aligning with international models, such as the German TIMO standard, which is followed by 14 countries, India can ensure that its medical tourism sector maintains high global standards and offers a competitive edge.

Dr. Khetarpal urged the Indian government to prioritize the creation of policy frameworks similar to the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH), which has proven effective in establishing quality standards within the healthcare sector. These policies would help elevate the reputation of India as a trusted destination for high-quality healthcare.

India’s Growing Popularity Among Medical Tourists

India has long been a hub for medical tourism, offering world-class medical services at a fraction of the cost seen in Western countries. From complex surgeries to cosmetic procedures, India has established itself as a leader in affordable and high-quality healthcare. As Dr. Atul Kochhar, CEO of a leading healthcare provider, pointed out, medical tourists prioritize not only successful treatment outcomes but also the overall patient experience. To attract more international patients, India must focus on elevating care standards and improving the patient journey, regardless of their origin.

The medical tourism industry in India sees thousands of patients from countries like the United States, United Kingdom, and Middle Eastern nations, all seeking affordable treatments. But despite the growth, the lack of a unified policy framework is limiting the sector’s potential. According to Dr. Kochhar, “To truly capitalize on medical tourism, India must elevate standards for all patients, regardless of their origin, and solidify its position as a global healthcare destination.”

Patient-Centric Systems and Seamless Care: The Need for Innovation

Another pressing issue discussed at the summit was the importance of creating patient-centric systems. Prof. M. Bajpai, Vice President of the National Board of Examinations, emphasized the necessity for timely and accessible emergency care for medical tourists. Prof. Bajpai also advocated for the implementation of a unified electronic medical record system, which would enable seamless care and transparency for patients, regardless of their origin.

The introduction of a comprehensive electronic medical record system would streamline the healthcare process, making it easier for international patients to receive consistent care across various medical facilities. Such systems would also allow for better communication between healthcare providers, improving patient outcomes and satisfaction.

In addition to these technological innovations, Prof. Bajpai stressed the need for strategic outreach to neighboring nations, particularly within the SAARC region. Collaborative partnerships between hospitals in India and countries like Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka would help build trust and create more entry points for medical tourists in the region.

The Role of AYUSH in Medical Tourism

As India seeks to expand its role in global medical tourism, alternative healing practices such as AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy) must be integrated into the broader framework. Mr. Madhusudan Chauhan, CEO of Jiva Ayurveda, discussed the importance of defining the role of AYUSH therapies in medical tourism. He emphasized that in order to stay competitive on the global stage, India must substantiate its traditional therapies with evidence-based outcomes that align with international demand for scientifically validated treatments.

A Vision for India’s Future in Medical Tourism

India’s medical tourism industry is on the cusp of transformative growth, but it requires strategic policy changes and innovation to reach its full potential. A unified national policy would not only help streamline the process for international patients but also elevate India’s position as a global leader in medical tourism.

The summit also highlighted wellness destinations that contribute to India’s growing reputation as a wellness hub. Centers like Atmantan Wellness Centre are setting new benchmarks in integrative healing, attracting both domestic and international guests. With personalized Ayurveda, yoga, and detox programs, these wellness centers are providing valuable alternatives to traditional healthcare, complementing the medical tourism sector.

Conclusion: A Call for Action

The experts at the Heal India Medical and Wellness Tourism Summit have made it clear: a unified policy framework is the next essential step in unlocking India’s potential as a global medical tourism leader. By focusing on quality standards, patient-centric care, and innovation, India can pave the way for a future where medical tourists from around the world can rely on India as a trusted and affordable healthcare destination.