Medical tourism has become a major global trend, with UK patients increasingly travelling overseas for faster, more affordable, and personalised healthcare. Rising NHS waiting times, now at 7.41 million despite a £25bn funding boost, along with higher domestic costs, are driving Britons to seek treatment abroad, from dental work and orthopaedic surgery to fertility, cosmetic, and cardiac procedures.
According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), more than half a million UK residents travelled abroad for medical treatment in 2024, a 244 per cent increase from 2018. Long NHS waits and rising costs are key motivators, while analysis by the Nuffield Trust shows waiting times for hip replacements, one of the most popular procedures undertaken abroad, rose nearly 50 per cent in 2023, from 87 to 128 days. Dental care costs have also increased, with NHS charges rising steadily, and 158 NHS hospitals rated “Inadequate” or “Requires Improvement” by the Care Quality Commission in 2024.
India is emerging as a particularly appealing destination. The country offers a dedicated medical visa, a medical attendant visa for carers, and specialised healthcare corridors for international patients. India is addressing the health needs of foreign visitors by providing fast access to high-quality treatments at competitive prices. (For more information see page 4)
British patients are now more informed and confident about seeking treatment abroad, supported by online information, international patient coordinators, and transparent pricing. While traditional destinations like Turkey, Poland, Portugal, and Italy remain popular, India is quickly becoming a top choice for those seeking timely, reliable, and cost-effective healthcare.
This feature explores the growing appeal of medical tourism in India, the provisions being offered, and why increasing numbers of Britons are turning to international destinations to meet their healthcare needs.
