India is well known for its medical tourism that attracts patients from different countries including Bangladesh.

Nevertheless, organising such a long stay in such a country as India could turn into a great challenge.

In this guide, Karetrip will discuss some tips for Bangladeshi patients on how to manage long term stays in India.

Why Choose India for your Medical Treatment?

• High-Quality Healthcare Facilities

The medical services in India are well developed and it has reached a level where it can be compared with the medical services in the developed countries. The health care is also well avaisolated with many treatment procedures and more so some of the most sophisticated equipment being easily accessed.

• Expert Medical Personnel

This is because doctors in India are well-trained especially in their various fields having undergone this strenuous test throughout their years of study. Therefore, they are well conversant with different ailments across the various specialties inclusive of oncology, neurology, cardiology among others.

India is on the top favourite list for Bangladeshi patients when it comes to medical expenses. They also offer fairly affordable pricing on all from simple operations to the most state-of-the-art procedures. For instance, the price for angioplasty in India is simply $2 100 and in the United State of America this procedure costs $ 28 425.

• Hospital Accreditation

Indian hospitals provide quality health care services and achieve set accreditation standards in order to conform the guidelines of the JCI as well as NABH respectively. In India there are 55 hospitals that have received accreditation from JCI and over 1300 hospitals with NABH accreditation.

• State-of-the-art Infrastructure

Hospitals in India may not be provided with all the routine diagnostics and treatments medical such as X rays and other contemporary surgical procedures which include minimally invasive and robotic surgery. Furthermore, treatment in almost all the specialisations is provided including cardiology, oncology, orthopaedics and the like.

Tips for Managing Long-Term Stays

Pre-Arrival Planning

• Research hospitals and doctors

• Verify medical visa requirements

• Arrange accommodation and transportation

• Purchase travel insurance

• Notify your embassy/consulate

• Assemble medical tabs and papers

• Learn more about the treatments and their prices

Financial Planning

• Estimate treatment costs

• Streamline payment processes (e. g. Wire transfer)

• Consider currency exchange rates

• Estimate for the cost of living factors such as food, shelter and other expenses.

• Budget for contingencies

• Understand insurance coverage

Logistical Arrangements

• Book accommodation near hospital

• Arrange transportation to/from hospital

• If so, you may need to employ a live-in carer or an auxiliary person claiming to have carer status.

• It is useful to know as much as possible about the available amenities.

• Some of the services to be provided include language interpretation services

• Be knowledgeable on the various requirements at the hospitals

Health and Wellness

• Take prescribed course of treatment and use prescribed medication

• Maintain a healthy diet

• Stay hydrated

• Exercise regularly (if permitted)

• Manage stress and anxiety

• Attend follow-up appointments

Communication

• Learn basic Hindi/English phrases

• Carry a translation app/device

• Appoint one person within Bangladesh to be solely responsible for the communication with the offices and lawyers

• Update family/friends back home frequently

• Join patient support groups

Document Management

• Keep medical records organised

• Driver’s licence, insurance papers, and passport should be kept handy

• In case of emergencies, scan and store copies of pertinent documents

• Be aware of the documents necessary to avail of medical treatment

Safety and Security

• Register with your embassy/consulate

• Always get up to date regarding the conditions of the locality

• There is another important warning that is not to travel alone, especially at night

• Keep valuables secure

• Legal requirements vary from country to country, region to region

Cultural Adaptation

• Follow the culture of the country

• Food should be tasted – the domestic one preferably If possible

• It may include getting involved with the local social events such as going out for dinner

• Join patient support groups

• Get to know the most recognized Indian festivals and holidays

Vaccinations and Health Precautions

• Consult with your healthcare provider about any recommended vaccinations before travelling.

• Prepare a small medical kit with essential medications for common illnesses.

Dietary Considerations

• Research or consult with the hospital about available food options that suit your dietary needs.

• Consider bringing non-perishable snacks from home for the initial days.

Emergency Preparation

Keep a list of emergency contacts, including the hospital's emergency number, local police, and the Bangladeshi embassy or consulate in India.

Return Journey Planning

• Schedule follow-up appointments

• Arrange transportation back home

• Under the above circumstances, the vulnerable sector of women and children, especially adolescents, needs to be provided prolonged treatment in Bangladesh.

• Plan for post-treatment recovery

• All documents required for the next trip must be acquired

Preparation is key to ensuring your medical journey to India is smooth and stress-free. This checklist covers the essential steps and considerations, paving the way for a focus on health and recovery.

The information provided represents the views and opinions of Karetrip. It is crucial to conduct your own independent research before making any decisions regarding your healthcare journey.