Costs · 7 min read · Medico Editorial Team
How Much Does Medical Treatment in India Really Cost?
Package prices tell only part of the story. Here is how to budget the full trip — treatment, travel, stay and the costs nobody mentions — with two worked examples.
What the hospital package includes
A typical surgical package covers surgeon and anaesthesia fees, operating theatre, ICU and ward stay, standard implants/consumables and routine tests. It usually excludes: pre-existing condition treatment, blood products beyond a limit, extended ICU stay and complications.
The five costs beyond the package
- Flights: $300–1,000 return depending on your country
- Medical visa: roughly $60–75 per person
- Accommodation: guest house near the hospital $15–30/night; hotel $40–80
- Food & local transport: $10–20/day for two people
- Post-discharge stay: most surgeries need 1–3 weeks nearby before flying
Worked example: heart bypass (CABG) from Lagos
- Surgery package: $4,000–8,000
- Flights for patient + attendant: ~$1,400
- Visa ×2: ~$150
- 25 nights guest house: ~$500
- Food and transport: ~$400
- Realistic total: $6,500–10,500 — versus $70,000+ for surgery alone in the US
Worked example: knee replacement from Dhaka
- Surgery package: $5,000–8,000
- Flights ×2: ~$400
- Visa ×2: ~$150
- 14 nights: ~$300
- Food and transport: ~$250
- Realistic total: $6,100–9,100
How to keep the budget honest
Ask for a written, itemised quote that states exclusions; budget 10–15% contingency; and confirm the implant brand in writing — implant upgrades are the most common source of surprise costs. Every Medico quote itemises these lines. Get yours →
Have Questions About Your Case?
Send your medical reports — a care coordinator replies within 48 hours with hospital options and costs.