India Offers High-Quality Healthcare At Affordable Costs: Dr. Naresh Trehan

India is emerging as a leading global destination for medical value tourism, offering advanced healthcare services with affordability and quality. The country’s robust healthcare infrastructure, combined with its expertise in both modern and traditional medicine, places it among the best in the world.

Dr. Naresh Trehan, Managing Director of Medanta, highlights India’s significant progress in healthcare services over the last 15-20 years. Sharing his perspective, he says, “I have spent 20 years in the United States, so I know the standards there and where India has come. In comparison to services offered anywhere in Europe, America, and Canada, India’s institutions have achieved equal or even better results internationally. The quality of care and end outcomes here are sometimes superior to the best institutions in the world.”

Dr. Trehan emphasises that India delivers “high-quality care at affordable costs, with integrity and compassion,” which remains unmatched globally.

Global Standards and Recognitions

Highlighting India’s adherence to international benchmarks, Dr. Trehan points to the Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation, which ensures hospitals meet the same rigorous standards as in the United States. “The certification evaluates safety, infection control, and other facilities every three months,” he explains. India’s National Accreditation Board for Hospitals (NABH) similarly maintains high-quality standards for healthcare delivery.

Dr. Trehan also notes India’s growing global recognition. “Five years ago, India’s first private hospital was ranked among the world’s best hospitals. Today, we continue to hold this position, and we are proud of the progress we have made.”

Excellence in Specialised Medical Services

India offers expertise in advanced medical procedures, including robotic surgeries, organ transplants, and integrated cancer care. On cardiac care, Dr. Trehan states, “As a cardiac surgeon, I can say that 90 per cent of patients considered inoperable elsewhere can be treated successfully here. Even patients with heart function as low as 20 per cent have a 97 per cent chance of survival in India.”

For cancer treatment, Dr. Trehan highlights India’s integrated approach, which combines oncology specialists, surgeons, and radiation experts to provide seamless care.

He also underscores the unique combination of modern and traditional medicine, such as Ayurveda, to enhance recovery. “For example, combining modern therapies with Ayurvedic treatments accelerates recovery in stroke patients by at least 70 per cent,” he adds.

Opportunities for Collaboration and Training

Dr. Trehan extends India’s healthcare expertise to global partners by offering training for medical personnel. “India is open to training professionals from any country, whether here or overseas. In many cases, we charge no more than basic maintenance costs,” he says.

India’s healthcare system is now largely self-sufficient, with 99 per cent of patients seeking treatment domestically. “Even the super-rich no longer travel abroad for care as they did 15-20 years ago,” he adds.

Enhancing the Patient Experience

Dr. Trehan concludes by seeking suggestions to further improve India’s medical value tourism offerings. “We want to provide seamless services for international patients—from visa arrangements, hospital visits, treatment, and returning home. If you can give us concrete feedback, we will work on making this process as smooth as possible.”

He emphasises India’s commitment to combining affordability, excellence, and compassion for patients worldwide. “This is our aspiration, and we look forward to hearing your suggestions to make it a reality.”

Dr. Trehan shared his insights at the recent  SANJEEVANI 2024, Healthcare & Wellness Expo organised by SEPC.