Medical tourism has gained momentum in the state in recent times, bringing in a large number of medical tourists and revenue in dollars.  The multi-billion healthcare industry, with sophisticated equipment and expertise matching the best available in developed nations, is poised for more growth, say medical and tourism experts.  The year that has gone by had brought scores of international medical tourists and buoyed by this, the tourism authority anticipates more arrivals this year too.



“There are three important components that make Tamil Nadu a favoured medical tourism destination. There is nil waiting time for patients, treatment cost is less compared to what is available in western nations and patients can convalesce at their convenience in the hospitals,” says Mr A.C. Mohandoss, managing director of Tamil Nadu tourism development corporation (TTDC).  For what they would shell out for a medical check-up in Singapore, Tokyo, Sydney, New York, Paris or London, one could come to Chennai, undergo medical check-up, get top class treatment and even visit wonderful tourist spots, he adds.


According to Dr C.M.K. Reddy, president, TN medical practitioners association, and chairman of Meditour India Ltd - promoted by TTDC and senior doctors, “Chennai is earning the recognition as India’s health capital as it attracts about 40 per cent of the total medical-tourists in the country.”  A specialty of Tamil Nadu is that it offers an accommodation tariff, including luxury hotels, ranging from $ 5 to $ 250 a day to suit the cost-conscious. Besides, there is also TTDC’s 55-hotel chain. The rich cultural heritage, handicrafts and hand-woven silks are value additions, Mr Mohandoss adds.


Tamil Nadu, known as “the land of temples,” is widely regarded as one of the most preferred destinations for health and medicare. The state boasts of numerous multi-specialtiy hospitals and is a leader in India especially in eye care, oncology, ortho-paedics, cardiology and kidney treatment, says TTDC joint director A. Bhakthavatsalam.  The hospitals adhere to stringent international quality, which includes regular medical audits, and follow eco-friendly disposal of medical waste besides offering healing methods like ayurveda, siddha, homeopathy, unani, yoga, meditation and naturopathy.


In addition to cafeterias offering world cuisine including exotic dishes from Africa and the middle east, corporate hospitals in the city pamper their overseas clients by arranging for transportation for shopping trips. Hospitals like MIOT, Global health city and Apollo hospitals here have full-time translators for every nearly language – from Bengali to Assamese, Swahili to Arabic.

Source: June 27, 2011, Deccan Chronicle