A great transition occurs going back to India after spending a few years outside, especially in healthcare. India’s healthcare is vast and encompasses both public and private options; however, navigating the system is quite difficult for returning NRIs who have been exposed to a different pattern of care while outside. We take you through the Indian healthcare system here in this blog, teaching you how to better manage your healthcare needs on insights from Prime Wealth, a firm known for helping NRIs in their holistic return to India, including healthcare planning.
Understanding the Indian Healthcare System
India’s healthcare system is quite a mix, with both government and private care providers. Care ranges from just basic health provision to highly specialist treatments. And here is how it goes.
- Public Healthcare: Public healthcare provides low-cost services or even services free of cost. However, these services always suffer from some underfunding and overcrowding.
- Private Medical Care: India’s private sector is among the finest in the world. The quality of medical care by private hospitals and clinics is quite advanced but a bit costlier. The major issue facing returnee NRIs is quality care versus Affordability.
How to Access the Health System
- Obtain Medical Insurance The first thing you would do after landing in India is to obtain comprehensive health insurance. You would have had some form of health care in other countries through government funding or as part of your employment. In India, private health care can be quite expensive without any insurance coverage. Prime Wealth suggests that one consider the coverage of insurance that covers in-patient as well as outpatient services to cushion against medical bills.
- Public vs Private Health Care You may need to decide whether to rely on public or private healthcare based on your needs. Public healthcare is ideal for basic medical needs, but if you’re looking for specialized care or shorter wait times, private hospitals are a better choice. According to a 2023 report by the National Health Profile, around 65% of urban households prefer private healthcare despite the cost, due to better services and facilities.
- Find Key Hospitals Near Your Place As you will return, you would want to find the nearest hospitals and clinics from your house in India. Cities are generally much better when it comes to private hospitals such as Apollo Hospitals, Fortis, and Max Healthcare. But, if you’re moving to a small town or city, then it would be smart to keep an eye for good local health care providers and know what they offer.
- Understand Charges Medical costs can be way too different in India between the public healthcare and the private healthcare. The former is cheap, and the latter may be costlier. It can cost up to ₹3-5 lakhs for heart surgery in one of the best private hospitals. Prime Wealth advises NRIs to include healthcare in their financial planning so that there is adequate cover for any kind of medical exigency .
https://nrireturntoindia.com/healthcare-in-india-for-returning-nris/ - Be conversant with telemedicine Telemedicine services have become a popular phenomenon in India because of the pandemic. Now, most hospitals and clinics offer online consultation services, thereby reducing the necessity to visit health care providers in person. It can be useful for routine follow-ups or controlling chronic diseases. Practo and 1mg are platforms through which doctors and medical services are easily accessible online.
Current Trends in Healthcare for NRIs
A 2025 NATHEALTH report by the Healthcare Federation of India says there has been an increase in the number of NRIs returning to India for medical treatment, particularly for elective procedures. Affordability of healthcare in India, especially compared to the US and UK, also makes it a great destination for medical tourism.
Prime Wealth further reports that growing private healthcare expenses and minimal coverage of basic insurance policies are also prompting NRIs to invest in long-term health plans in India.
Conclusion: In Control of Your Health
Armed with the right information and planning, a returning NRI does not find the Indian healthcare system to be too rugged to handle. Whatever you choose between public and private healthcare, research and preparation regarding health insurance, the best hospitals, and telemedicine will make you more informed. Prime Wealth will help NRIs plan their finances to accommodate healthcare and also find insurance that suits their requirements. You will be well-prepared for good medical care without the stress of finance.
FAQs’
1. Do I need health insurance when returning to India?
Ans- Yes, health insurance is highly recommended, especially if you plan to use private healthcare services.
2. Can NRIs access government healthcare services in India?
Ans- Yes, NRIs can access public healthcare, but these services may be limited in quality and availability.
3. Is private healthcare in India expensive?
Ans- Yes, private healthcare can be costly. Procedures such as surgeries and specialized treatments can run into lakhs of rupees.
4. What are the best private hospitals in India?
Ans- Some of the best private hospitals in India include Apollo Hospitals, Fortis Healthcare, and Max Hospitals.
5. Are there health insurance plans specifically for NRIs?
Ans- Yes, several insurers offer specialized health insurance plans designed for NRIs.
6. How does telemedicine work in India?
Ans- Telemedicine allows you to consult doctors online through platforms like Practo and 1mg, which is convenient for non-emergency consultations.
7. How much does a consultation with a specialist in a private hospital cost?
Ans- Consultation fees can vary but generally range from ₹500 to ₹1,500, depending on the hospital and doctor.
8. Can I buy health insurance after returning to India?
Ans- Yes, you can purchase health insurance after returning. However, it’s best to get coverage immediately to avoid any gaps.
9. Is healthcare in India cheaper compared to Western countries?
Ans- Yes, healthcare costs in India are significantly lower than in countries like the US or UK, making it a popular destination for medical tourism.
10. Can NRIs get coverage for pre-existing conditions under Indian health insurance?
Ans- Most insurers cover pre-existing conditions after a waiting period, which is typically between two to four years.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal, or tax advice. Consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not accept any liability for errors or omissions in this information nor any direct, indirect, or consequential losses arising from its use.
