Gaudium IVF, one of the leading approved fertility treatment centres well known for utilising the most advanced reproductive technology, has bet big on India’s future to emerge as a popular hotspot for IVF treatments. The fertility clinic has reported that IVF drives the growth story of the Indian Medical Tourism Industry. This unfolds against the backdrop of declining fertility rates across the world, so much so that W.H.O. had to categorise fertility as the third largest disease burden now.
Gaudium IVF is witnessing increased ‘egg freezing’ cases, especially from global patients. Their study data indicates that egg reserve decline occurs in women of all races across 30 countries worldwide. Clinical, racial, and ethnic factors, along with delayed family planning and increasingly sedentary lifestyles, account for this alarming rise in infertility cases.
This prompts couples to opt for advanced treatment options, creating huge market opportunities for India. Approximately 2 million patients visit India annually from 78 countries for medical, wellness, and IVF treatments, generating $6 billion for the Indian Medical Tourism Industry. The government-backed Health in India initiative expects the industry to reach $13 billion by 2026.
Dr Manika Khanna, an infertility specialist laparoscopic surgeon and founder of Gaudium IVF, commented on promoting India as an accessible medical travel destination abroad: “The rising prevalence of late parenthood has increased the incidence of infertility due to rapidly declining egg reserves in women across the world. Over the years, the success rate of IVF treatments in our country has driven people from around the globe to travel to India.
Fertility is an emotional journey. It is important to practice self-compassion, stay hopeful, and face fertility challenges with patience and a positive mindset. At this stage, the government can play a supportive role by offering reassurance. By reaffirming the motto ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’, India can build trust through strong communication strategies. Well-planned brand campaigns, similar to ‘Incredible India’, can highlight the strengths of Indian healthcare globally. These efforts should focus on an individual’s mental, emotional, and social well-being.
Medical Tourism refers to the industry where international patients travel across the border for medical treatments. In recent years, India has emerged as a major medical tourism hub and now ranks among the world’s top six medical value travel destinations. IVF contributes significantly to the growth of Indian Medical Tourism. Since its inception, IVF has grown rapidly and achieved high success rates, earning widespread acceptance around the world. India has evolved as a pioneer in many high-end and result-oriented IVF treatments. This has drawn the attention of aspiring parents all over the world.
India’s healthcare system provides world-class care at a low cost. The medical visa process must be smoothened over and made available easily. E-visas should be one option for patients but must not be the only one. Visa on arrival for medical treatment can further boost the tourists’ footfall.
Looking at our population demographic, nearly 65% of people are under 35. Despite this, infertility is a much bigger challenge than we realize today. Our unrivalled knowledge and top-notch doctors set us apart. Years of experience and advanced IVF procedures support our success. Because of this expertise, patients fly in from more than 30 countries worldwide.
Egg freezing also helps women fight against cancer.
In one such case, one of our patients flew in from New York and froze her eggs before starting chemotherapy. After her cancer went into complete remission, she got married and later returned with her husband. Dr Khanna used her frozen eggs and helped her deliver a beautiful baby, who is now a healthy seven-year-old child.
The cost-effective medical treatment and the availability of a highly skilled and experienced medical workforce make India one of the first choices for hassle-free and effective treatment. Its rapidly growing medical tourism industry has put Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, Bangalore and Kochi on the globe for millions across Asia and Africa, who turn to these cities for all their surgical needs.
