Why Do Nigerian Patients Prefer India For Their Medical Needs?

20 September,2024

India has appeared as one of the leading medical tourism destinations, ranking 10th worldwide on the Medical Tourism Index (MTI) for 2020-2021. Among the countries contributing significantly to this sector, Nigeria stands out as one of the top sources of patients from Africa seeking medical treatment in India. The robust relationship between Nigeria and India, coupled with India's advanced healthcare infrastructure and cost-effective treatment options, makes it an attractive destination for Nigerian patients.

India is a prominent provider of medical support for Nigeria. Indian pharmaceutical companies such as Cipla play a significant role in delivering healthcare in Nigeria. Several Indian hospitals and diagnostic centers operate in Nigeria, such as Mecure Diagnostic Centers and Vedic Hospitals in Lagos and Primus International Super Specialty Hospital in Abuja.

Furthermore, Indian hospital chains offer training to Nigerian doctors in specialized medical procedures, thus enhancing patient care in Nigeria. For instance, approximately 100 Abuja University Teaching Hospital doctors recently received training from medical experts at India's Apollo Hospitals.

India's Growing Popularity Among Nigerian Patients: A Trend Analysis

India is a preferred destination for Nigerian patients seeking medical treatment. The trend has steadily increased over the past decade, driven by several factors, including affordability, quality of care, and expertise in complex surgeries. Here's a breakdown of the key trends:

• In 2012, around 40% of visas issued to India from Nigeria were for medical purposes, with Nigerians spending approximately 260 million USD on medical expenses in India.
• Over the past five years, the number of Nigerians seeking medical treatment in India has increased by 15%, showing a growing preference for Indian healthcare.
• In 2019 alone, more than 20,000 Nigerians traveled to India for medical care, making it one of the top destinations for Nigerian medical tourists. This represents about 20% of all Nigerians seeking treatment abroad.
• The affordability of healthcare in India is a crucial factor attracting Nigerian patients. Medical procedures in India cost 50-70% less than in Nigeria, leading to significant savings.
• A survey of Nigerians treated in India found high satisfaction with the quality of care. Over 85% reported positive outcomes and praised Indian doctors and medical staff.
• Complex surgeries, such as heart procedures and organ transplants, have a higher success rate in India compared to Nigeria. For example, the survival rate for heart surgeries is around 95% in India, compared to 70% in Nigeria, showcasing India's advanced medical infrastructure and expertise.
• The medical tourism industry in India is evaluated at USD 7.69 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 14.31 billion by 2029. This growth is primarily attributed to the increasing number of international patients, including Nigerians, seeking affordable, high-quality medical care in India.

As of 2024, the number of Nigerian patients traveling to India for medical treatment has continued to increase. While exact figures are not readily available, it's safe to assume that the trend has persisted based on the positive reception and growing popularity of Indian healthcare among Nigerians.

Factors Driving Nigerian Patients to India for Medical Care

There are several significant reasons why India is a top choice among Nigerian patients seeking medical treatment. Some of them are:

• High-Quality Healthcare Services: India offers medical services that meet and often exceed international standards. The country's healthcare system is equipped with the latest technology, and hospitals regularly introduce new-age treatments. Nigerian patients facing limitations in specialized therapies in their home country find India a suitable destination for procedures that require advanced medical technologies.
• Affordable Treatment Options: Cost is critical for Nigerian patients seeking medical treatment abroad. India provides one of the most cost-effective healthcare services globally. For instance, while a kidney transplant in India costs between USD 8,000 and USD 14,000, the same procedure in Nigeria could be significantly more expensive or less accessible due to resource constraints. The affordability of treatments in India allows Nigerian patients to allocate saved resources for post-treatment care and other necessities.
• Accredited Hospitals: India boasts numerous hospitals accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI) and the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers (NABH). With over 55 JCI-accredited and 1,300 NABH-accredited hospitals, Nigerian patients are assured of receiving world-class care in India.
• Expert Medical Professionals: Indian doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals are known for their rigorous training and expertise. Many have completed super-specializations in renowned international institutions and are skilled in various specialties, including cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and neurology. Nigerian patients benefit from the expertise of these professionals, particularly for complex and specialized treatments.
• Advanced Infrastructure: Indian hospitals are equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure, offering everything from routine diagnostics to cutting-edge treatments such as robotic-assisted surgery and minimally invasive procedures. Nigerian patients find it convenient to access comprehensive healthcare services under one roof, ensuring a seamless treatment experience.

Other Reasons Making India a Preferred Medical Tourism Destination for Nigerians

Besides highly skilled medical professionals, accredited hospitals, and cost-effective treatment options, many other aspects make India a favorable medical tourism destination among Nigerian patients.

• Convenient Travel: India is easily accessible from Nigeria, with direct flights available from major cities like Lagos and Abuja to Indian cities such as New Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai. The travel time is approximately 10-12 hours, making it relatively easy for patients to travel for medical treatment. Additionally, flight costs are affordable, enhancing the appeal of India as a medical tourism destination.
• Cultural Sensitivity and Hospitality: India's culture of hospitality, reflected in the principle of 'Atithi Devo Bhava' (The Guest is God), ensures that Nigerian patients receive warm and respectful treatment. The widespread use of English in India also facilitates smooth communication between Nigerian patients and Indian healthcare providers, ensuring a comfortable treatment process.
• Government Initiatives: The 'Heal in India' initiative, launched in 2022, has further boosted medical tourism by easing travel restrictions and promoting the country as a global healthcare hub. This initiative, along with the availability of special AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy) visas, has attracted many Nigerian patients seeking both modern and traditional treatments.
• Shorter Waiting Times: The Global Health Workforce Alliance revealed in its 2015 report that sub-Saharan Africa faces a severe scarcity of doctors and nurses. The doctor-to-patient ratio in Nigeria is approximately 1:9000, way below the WHO recommendations. In contrast, India's ratio of 1:834 ensures that Nigerian patients can quickly access the medical care they need without long delays.
• Comprehensive Medical Tourism Services: India has several medical tourism companies that offer all-inclusive packages for international patients, including visa assistance, travel planning, accommodation, language interpretation, and more. These services make the entire medical journey for Nigerian patients smooth and hassle-free.

Popular Medical Treatments for Nigerian Patients in India

India has become a sought-after destination for Nigerian patients seeking a wide range of treatments. Here are some of the most common procedures:

• Cardiology: Nigerian patients often travel to India for cardiac treatments such as coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG), angioplasty, valve repair and replacements, ASD/VSD device closure, and pacemaker implantations. Indian cardiology hospitals offer these procedures at a fraction of the cost compared to Western countries.
• Oncology: Cancer is a growing concern in Nigeria, yet treatment options remain limited. Indian hospitals provide affordable cancer treatments, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and advanced procedures like robotic cancer surgery and CAR T-cell therapy, making India a preferred destination for Nigerian cancer patients.
• Orthopedics: Nigerian patients in India commonly seek orthopedic procedures, including joint replacements and spinal surgeries. Indian orthopedic surgeons use advanced techniques, such as minimally invasive surgery and robotic-assisted procedures, to enhance treatment outcomes.
• Neurosurgery: For complex neurosurgical procedures, such as brain tumor removal, spinal surgeries, and deep brain stimulation, Nigerian patients often turn to Indian hospitals, which offer advanced treatments like Gamma Knife radiosurgery and proton beam therapy.
• Nephrology: Kidney transplants and other nephrology treatments are in high demand among Nigerian patients. Nephrology hospitals in India provide these services with high success rates and at affordable prices, attracting patients seeking life-saving procedures.

Additional Popular Medical Treatments for Nigerian Patients in India

Besides the core specialties mentioned earlier, India offers a range of other medical treatments that are popular among Nigerian patients. These include:

• Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery: India is renowned for its expertise in cosmetic and plastic surgery, offering procedures such as rhinoplasty, liposuction, and facelifts at competitive prices. Nigerian patients frequently travel to India for these services due to the combination of high quality and affordability.
• Ophthalmology: Nigerian patients prefer India for eye treatments like cataract surgery, LASIK, and corneal transplants, where they can access advanced ophthalmological care with high success rates.
• Bariatric Surgery: With the rising incidence of obesity-related health issues, Nigerian patients increasingly seek bariatric surgery in India. Indian bariatric surgeons offer procedures like gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy, which are both effective and affordable.
• Traditional Medicine: India's ancient medical systems, such as Ayurveda and Yoga, attract Nigerian patients interested in alternative and holistic treatments. Many travel to India to experience these therapies, which are known for their preventive and rejuvenating benefits.

Best Hospitals in India for Nigerian Patients

India has numerous world-class hospitals catering to international patients, including those from Nigeria. Some of these hospitals are:

• Manipal Hospital, Palam Vihar, Gurgaon
• Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, New Delhi
• MGM Healthcare, Chennai
• Nanavati-Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mumbai
• Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon
• Gleneagles Hospital, Parel, Mumbai

Indian Medical Visa for Nigerian Patients: Documents Required, Eligibility, Procedure, and Fees

If you're a Nigerian patient planning to visit India for treatment, you will need a Medical Visa (MED Visa). The following section will provide the necessary information about the application process and the required documents for a successful Indian Medical Visa application.

What is an Indian Medical Visa?

An Indian medical visa is granted explicitly to foreign nationals whose sole purpose in visiting India is to undergo medical treatment in recognized hospitals or treatment centers. Nigerian patients can benefit from India's advanced healthcare services at significantly lower costs than in many other countries.

• Visa Fees: The visa fee for Nigerian patients is USD 252, which includes a USD 2 surcharge. The visa is typically a triple-entry visa, allowing multiple visits within the validity period.
• Visa Submission Timings: You can submit your Medical Visa application on all working days between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM.

Essential Vaccination Requirements for Nigerian Patients

India has specific vaccination requirements to ensure the safety of all travelers, particularly for patients traveling from Nigeria and other polio-affected countries.

• Oral Polio Vaccination (OPV) or Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV): This is mandatory for Nigerian residents and must be taken before traveling to India. The OPV/IPV certificate is valid for one year from the date of vaccination.
• Yellow Fever Vaccination: This is compulsory for all Nigerian patients except infants under six months. Ensure that you get vaccinated and carry the Yellow Fever certificate with you.

Documents Required for a Medical Visa Application

Here's a checklist of the essential documents you will need to submit your Medical Visa application:

• Original Passport: The Nigerian passport must be valid for at least six months or longer, depending on the duration of the requested visa.
• Photocopy of Passport: Include a clear photocopy of the data page of your passport.
• Passport Photos: Submit two recent passport-sized photographs measuring 50mm x 50mm (2x2 inches) with a light background. These should be glued to your visa application form.
• Visa Application Form: The form must be filled out online. Ensure you sign in the designated boxes on pages 1 and 2 and that your signature matches the one on your passport.
• Personal Contact Information: Provide your email address and contact details. Using false information or another person's contact details may result in your visa being denied.
• Medical Referral Letter from a Nigerian Hospital: You need a referral letter from a well-reputed hospital or medical institute in Nigeria explaining the nature of your illness and why you are being referred for treatment in India. The letter should be typed on official letterhead, signed, and stamped. The hospital must also email this referral letter directly to the Indian High Commission in Abuja or the Consulate in Lagos.
• Invitation Letter from an Indian Hospital: A typed invitation letter from the Indian hospital where you'll be receiving treatment is required. The letter should include the treatment plan, start and end dates, and contact details of the hospital and the attending doctor. The hospital must also email this invitation directly to the Indian consulate in Nigeria. Make sure to attach a printout of the email with your application.
• Financial Documents: You must provide a certified bank statement for the last three months or a guarantee letter from your bank to prove you have enough funds to cover the medical and living expenses in India. If someone else is sponsoring your trip, include an affidavit from the sponsor and a copy of their ID or passport.
• Medical Records: If this is a follow-up visit, include medical records from previous treatments in India. Also, attach relevant medical reports from your Nigerian hospital, such as CT Scans, MRIs, or X-rays, to your application.
• Transplant Patients: If you are traveling for an organ transplant, you must submit a compatibility report for both the donor and recipient.
• Hospital Undertaking: The Indian hospital must provide an undertaking that they will take responsibility for the patient and any attendant throughout the treatment and ensure their departure from India after recovery. The hospital should include this undertaking in the invitation letter.

Financial Proof

Your financial proof, such as a bank statement, must clearly show that you can meet the medical and living expenses for your stay in India. If you have a sponsor, an affidavit from the sponsor and proof of their identity must be attached.

Visa Application Process

1. Obtain a Referral Letter from a Nigerian Hospital
2. Secure an Invitation Letter from an Indian Hospital
3. Prepare Required Documents
4. Submit the Application to the Indian High Commission
5. Pay Visa Fees
6. Attend the Visa Interview (If Required)
7. Track Your Application and Collect Your Visa

Referral and Invitation Letters

The referral letter from your Nigerian hospital and the invitation letter from the Indian hospital are crucial documents for your visa application. Ensure both hospitals send these letters directly to the Indian High Commission or Consulate in Nigeria and that you attach printouts of these emails to your visa application.

List of Suggested Hospitals for Referral in Nigeria

To assist you in obtaining your referral letter, here are some suggested hospitals in Nigeria:

• Abuja: Primus Super Specialty Hospital, University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Nizamiye Hospital, Tulsi Chanrai Eye Care Hospital, and Defence HQ Medical Centre.
• Lagos: Mainland Hospital Yaba, Vedic Life Care Hospital, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Eurocare Multi-Specialist Hospital, St. Nicholas Hospital, and Gleneagles Medical Healthcare Services.

Conclusion

India's combination of high-quality healthcare, affordability, and advanced medical technology continues to attract Nigerian patients. With the added benefits of convenient travel, cultural sensitivity, and comprehensive support services, India remains a top destination for Nigerians seeking medical treatment.

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