US Tariffs Boost Medical Tourism Abroad; India Stands to Gain

A recent report from GlobalData has highlighted how US tariffs on Chinese medical imports by the United States are significantly raising healthcare costs. These tariffs are now a major factor pushing more Americans to seek medical treatment outside the country, giving a strong boost to outbound medical tourism. India stands to benefit as one of the top affordable healthcare destinations globally.

The US has imposed tariffs on a wide range of medical imports from China, including basic yet critical items like syringes, needles, surgical gloves, and face masks. This move is contributing to an increase in treatment costs across hospitals and medical institutions in the United States.

According to GlobalData, these tariffs have made it harder for hospitals to procure essential supplies, putting additional strain on their operational budgets. This, in turn, has led to higher healthcare expenses for patients, particularly those who are uninsured or underinsured.

The rising costs are now influencing patients' choices. Many are opting to travel abroad for their medical needs, especially to countries where quality care is available at a fraction of the US cost. India, along with Mexico, Thailand, and Costa Rica, has emerged as a preferred destination for medical travelers.

For example, while a knee replacement surgery in the United States might cost more than $50,000, the same procedure can be done in India or Mexico for approximately $8,000 to $12,000. These stark price differences are driving the trend of outbound medical tourism.

Alexandra Murdoch, a senior medical analyst at GlobalData, stated that although the tariffs were not specifically aimed at healthcare, they are having a noticeable effect on how patients approach medical treatment. The increased costs for hospitals due to higher-priced equipment eventually impact the patient, leading to a rise in medical tourism.

She further noted that this growing trend is expected to continue if tariffs remain in place and healthcare costs keep escalating in the US.

India, with its cost-effective healthcare services and growing reputation for quality treatment, is in a strong position to attract more international patients. The country is already known for its strengths in areas like cardiology, orthopedics, and oncology, and its medical tourism industry is poised to expand further.

(Input From Various Sources)

(Rehash/Sakshi Thakar/MSM)