Frequently Asked Questions
Medical Value Travel
Medical Value Travel may be defined as 'activities related to travel and hosting a foreign tourist who stays at least one night at the destination region for the purpose of maintaining, improving or restoring health through medical interventions.
Such medical intervention may be broadly classified into the following three categories:
- Medical Treatment: Treatment for curative purposes that may include cardiac surgery, organ transplant, hip and knee replacement, etc.
- Wellness & Rejuvenation: Offerings focused on rejuvenation or for aesthetic reasons such as cosmetic surgery, stress relief, spas, etc.
- Alternative Medicine: Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, and Homeopathy would be the major category given the Indian context.
Why is India considered best for Medical Tourism?
India has some of the most highly qualified and experienced doctors in the world. With a cultural emphasis on education, most of these physicians have gone on to super-specialize in their field, enabling them to become experts in their respective medical specialties. Further, most of the physicians that are in collaboration with Saumitra Medtour have had extensive hands-on training. The hospitals that Saumitra Medtour has tied up with are the leading hospitals in India with multi-specialty facilities.
Are the hospitals in India well equipped and up to international standards?
India has several private hospitals that are designed to provide world-class medical care. These hospitals utilize some of the best medical equipment that is available worldwide.
Saumitra Medtour has carefully evaluated and selected only those hospitals that meet very high international standards to be a part of our network. In India, all the hospitals and healthcare providers are accredited to NABH (National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers). NABH accreditation of India is equivalent to some of the world's leading hospital accreditations like JCI, Japan Council for Quality Healthcare (JCQC), National Safety and Quality Health Service (NSQHS) developed by the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (ACSQHC), etc.
Essential Documents for a Medical Trip in India
- Medical History/ Records/ Test reports/ X-rays
- Identity Proof - Driver's license/ Passport copies
- Passport size photos - keep 10-15 in hand for various purposes
- Details of Health insurance, if any
- Passport valid for a minimum of 180 days with at least two blank pages
- Relevant letters signed and stamped from the hospital concerned in India
- In case of hospitalization or long-term treatment, proof of financial resources - Bank statement for last 6 months and Solvency Certificate from Bank
Admission Process and Procedure Duration
In India, there is no waiting period or queuing up, either for diagnostic procedures or for treatment. After the initial diagnosis is done and the medical procedure decided upon, your surgery/intervention will be scheduled quickly. Duration for the entire medical procedure or treatment will depend on the individual's medical case.
Cost Savings Compared to Other Countries
The potential cost savings for medical tourists are huge, which is why many people seek treatment in India. It is important to note that the cost for each individual will vary depending on their needs and requirements. On the whole, patients can save an average of 40-60% on their medical procedures. Procedures for obesity and cosmetic surgeries are economical in India compared to many nations in the west. Dental implant surgeries and cardiac procedures are also competitively priced.
How can I find good doctors and hospitals in India?
Saumitra Medtour will provide you end-to-end guidance and assistance and that will include finding relevant and the best doctors for you in India.
Who will be dealing with details of my case during my trip?
A patient relationship manager from Saumitra Medtour will be assigned to you who will prepare your case, share with multiple doctors and hospitals and get back to you with a treatment plan, cost of treatment and other useful information. The PRM will take care of all details related to your visit and successful return & recovery.
Do I get a chance for second opinion?
Yes, Saumitra Medtour will assist you in getting your appointments fixed with multiple doctors and hospitals, which will assist you in getting second opinion and will help you in cost comparison as well.
Can I get any estimate on the cost?
Yes, our professional medical team will help you in getting the estimated cost for the treatment. The cost as you may be aware, depends on the medical condition, the choice of treatment, the type of room opted for etc. All your medical history and essential treatment details would be analysed by the team of experts in the hospitals. They will also provide you the various types of rooms / accommodation packages available and you have to make the selection. Charges are likely to vary by the type of room you take.
Is my health insurance valid in India?
Check with your health provider.
If I deal directly with the hospital will my medical expenses cost less?
The price that you get from Saumitra Medtour is directly from the hospital, is discounted and is lowest. We help you in getting the best price as possible.
Assistance for Obtaining Medical Visa
Once you decide on India as your medical travel destination, we will arrange an invitation letter from the respective hospital. This letter is necessary for medical visa processing and will be sent after initial treatment discussions. It must be presented at the 'Embassy' or 'High Commission of India' in your country.
Essentials Required for Medical Visa
- Passport with 6-month validity
- Passport size photograph
- Copy of passport
- Copy of online filled form
- Proof of residential address
- Recommendation from home country doctor to visit a specialized medical center for treatment
- Passport copy of the attendant (if applicable)
- Proof of relationship with the attendant (if applicable)
- Medical reports
Eligibility for Medical Visa
Applicants must demonstrate:
- Preliminary medical guidance in their country of residence
- Need for specialist treatment in a recognized Indian institution
- Priority is given to "M" visa applications for certain medical conditions like heart problems, organ transplants, ophthalmic disorders, and neuro-surgery
- Foreign nationals must register their arrival with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) within 14 days
- Up to two attendants who are blood relatives can accompany the applicant under separate Medical Attendant Visas
- Eligibility criteria may vary for different countries
Number of Entries Allowed
A maximum of 3 entries are allowed in a year for medical visas.
Visa Extension
Medical visas can be extended by the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) depending on the patient's condition. Saumitra Medtour assists in obtaining necessary documents from the hospital for visa extension.
Approximate Visa Fee
The fee for a medical visa varies by country and ranges from $150 to $250.
Arrival Formalities
We assist in completing formalities such as registering at the FRRO within 14 days of arrival in India for both the patient and accompanying attendants.
Arrival and Assistance
A Patient Relationship Manager (PRM) will meet you at the airport upon your arrival in India. The PRM will assist you throughout your journey, arranging transportation to and from your accommodation to the hospital for appointments.
Airport Transfers
Saumitra Medtour will arrange pick-up and drop-off services at the airport, ensuring clear communication of your travel schedule. Ambulance services can be arranged if needed, and in extreme cases, air ambulance services are also available.
Accommodation During Treatment
We partner with OYO hotels and other service providers to arrange accommodations tailored to your needs at reasonable prices. Condo/apartments with kitchenettes are also available for patients and their attendants requiring longer stays.
Appointment Scheduling
Our professional medical team will gather details about your health condition and treatment needs. We will recommend doctors and hospitals accordingly and schedule appointments with 2-3 doctors for second opinions. Your assigned PRM will accompany you to appointments upon your arrival.
Communication Services
- International calling services/Local SIM cards
- Newspaper - Local/International
- Internet facility - Wi-Fi
Interpreter Services
While English is widely spoken in India, interpretation services can be arranged for other languages upon request.
Emergency and Support
Healthcare services associated with Saumitra Medtour prioritize patient care and satisfaction. In case of any issues during your stay or treatment, our team will provide necessary support and assistance.
VIP Facilities for International Patients
We ensure that international patients receive VIP facilities and treatment at our partner hospitals in India.
Medical Stores/Pharmacies
Most hospitals in India have medical stores within their premises for convenient access to medications and supplies.
Acceptable Modes of Payment
We accept payments from international patients in US dollars (cash).
Services Provided
Our team of medical experts handles various queries including finding the right doctor and hospital, scheduling appointments, obtaining second opinions, comparing treatment costs, and managing in-hospital processes.
Discharge Formalities
Your assigned Patient Relationship Manager (PRM) will assist in completing all discharge formalities, ensuring a hassle-free process for you and your attendants.
Sight-Seeing in India
We offer sight-seeing opportunities during your stay in India. Please consult with your PRM for more information about available tours.
Follow-Up Care
We provide continued support after your return home, including follow-up consultations with doctors, assistance with reports, medications, and access to video consultations with your doctor through our platform.
Choosing the Best Medical Tourism Company in India
Saumitra Medtour is a leading medical tourism company in India, operating in major metropolitan cities. We are dedicated to providing you with the best medical treatments available in India. Saumitra Medtour has partnerships with renowned hospitals across India, ensuring top-notch medical care.
Cost of Medical Tourism in India
The cost of treatment for international patients in India depends on factors such as the type of medical procedure, choice of hospital and doctor, and duration of stay. Healthcare in India is known for its high quality and affordability; treatments are typically one-tenth of the cost compared to hospitals in the US or UK.
Reasons for High Success Rate of Medical Tourism in India
- Lower cost of treatment compared to other countries
- Global health standards and advanced treatment facilities
- Immediate access to comprehensive medical services
- Easy processing of medical visa applications
- Opportunity to visit spiritual and inspiring places
- Availability of world-class doctors in various specialties
Why Choose Saumitra Medtour for Medical Treatment in India
Saumitra Medtour is a pioneering medical tourism company in India, offering access to a wide range of hospitals and treatments. Our mission is to be among the leading medical tourism companies in India, providing exceptional care to those seeking medical treatment. At Saumitra Medtour , we ensure that your treatment is conducted with the utmost sophistication and care.