Canada’s healthcare system, once a model of universal care, is now grappling with severe challenges. Over 6.5 million Canadians lack a family doctor, and non-emergency procedures face indefinite delays. This crisis has compelled many Canadians to seek medical treatments abroad, turning to countries like Mexico, Germany, and India to bypass domestic healthcare gridlocks.
For instance, Patients from Toronto have to wait around 8 months to see a back-ache specialist, only to be rejected without consultation.This trend isn’t isolated to Canada. Patients from the UK, Australia, and parts of Europe are increasingly seeking medical care abroad due to long wait times and overburdened systems. In the UK, approximately 348,000 residents travelled abroad for medical treatment in 2022, a significant increase from previous years. Similarly, an estimated 57% of Australians travel abroad annually for medical procedures.
India, in particular, has emerged as a preferred destination, offering a combination of affordability, quality care, and minimal waiting periods.
India’s Ascendancy in Medical Tourism
India’s medical tourism sector is experiencing exponential growth. Valued at approximately USD 8.71 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 16.21 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 13.23% during the forecast period (2025-2030). Several factors contribute to this surge:([medicalbuyer.co.in][1]
Cost-Effective Treatments: Medical procedures in India are significantly affordable than in Western countries. For example, as per a NITI Aayog report, the average cost of a knee replacement procedure for foreign patients in India is around $6,600, which is less than half of the cost in Thailand, $14,000.
High-Quality Care: India boasts over 1,600 NABH-accredited hospitals and numerous JCI-accredited facilities, ensuring international standards of care.
Government Initiatives: The ‘Heal in India’ campaign and the extension of e-medical visas to nationals of 167 countries have streamlined the process for international patients seeking treatment in India.
Diverse Medical Services: India offers a wide range of treatments, from advanced cardiac and orthopaedic surgeries to holistic therapies like Ayurveda and Yoga, catering to a global clientele seeking holistic care. “Amid a growing global healthcare exodus, India is emerging as a trusted epicenter for affordable, high-quality medical care. What sets India apart is not just its world-class clinical expertise, but also its strategic accessibility—direct air routes from key markets like the U.S., UK, Middle East, and Africa—and a culturally familiar, English-speaking medical workforce that inspires patient confidence.
In 2024, India issued over 463,000 medical visas, and its medical tourism market was valued at approximately $8.19 billion, underscoring its growing appeal as a destination for quality and affordable healthcare, and is projected to reach $27.18 billion by 2032, reflecting a robust CAGR of 16.18% . As the global demand for timely, high-quality, and cost-effective medical solutions surges, Global Care Health stands at the forefront of this transformation. With a presence in over 75 countries, including Asia, the Middle East, CIS, Africa, and the Caribbean, we specialize in creating seamless clinical pathways that connect international patients to India’s top-tier hospitals, many of which are JCI, AACI and NABH accredited. Our comprehensive services encompass pre-travel treatment planning, visa facilitation, interpreter assistance, 24/7 guest relations, and post-operative care. As global demand for timely, high-quality, and affordable healthcare surges, GlobalCare Health remains committed to bridging healthcare gaps and delivering exceptional patient experiences.” Shared Rajeev Taneja, Founder and CEO, GlobalCare Health.
“Medical Linkers has been at the forefront of facilitating medical journeys for patients worldwide. India’s healthcare landscape has transformed remarkably, with state-of-the-art facilities and a patient-centric approach. We’ve assisted numerous Canadians and others from developed nations who, facing prolonged wait times at home, found prompt and effective treatments in India. We are currently facilitating an innovative non-invasive Parkinson’s treatment in India with Cyberknife, which is available only in India for now. The positive outcomes and patient satisfaction that India offers reinforce our position as a global healthcare hub.” Sonam Garg Sharma, Medical Linkers.
The strain on healthcare systems in countries like Canada has inadvertently spotlighted the efficiency and effectiveness of medical tourism destinations like India. With its blend of affordability, quality, and comprehensive care, India is not just addressing the immediate needs of international patients but is also setting a benchmark for global healthcare solutions.
