US Healthcare vs. Indian Healthcare: An American Woman’s Perspective
Quick Access vs. Long Delays: Waiting Times
In a recent video, Kristen Fischer, an American woman, compared the healthcare systems of the US and India. One major difference she highlighted was the waiting times for medical consultations.
- In the US, scheduling an appointment with a general physician can take 2-4 weeks, while specialist consultations can extend up to 3 months.
- Elective surgeries or planned and non-emergency surgeries often have waiting periods of 3-6 months.
In contrast, India offers significantly faster healthcare services:
- A walk-in visit to a general physician is mostly possible on the same day.
- Appointments with specialists are usually scheduled within just a week.
- Elective surgeries in India are typically performed within 1-4 weeks.
Cost of Medical Consultations
Healthcare in the US is known for its high costs, which is a major concern for its citizens. A visit to a doctor in America costs anywhere between $150 and $600 (12k to over 50k INR), depending on the complexity of the consultation and location.
In India, the same consultation costs between $7 and $17 (500 to 1500 INR). The affordability of doctor visits in India ensures that people do not hesitate to seek medical help when needed.
Hospitalisation Expenses
Another significant difference is the cost of hospital stays. In the US, a one-night hospital stay costs nearly $3,000 (2.5 lakhs), making hospitalisation a financial burden even for those with insurance.
Meanwhile, in India, a one-night hospital stay is surprisingly affordable, averaging under $80 (6k INR), also depending on the location and cause. This stark contrast shows how medical care in India remains within reach for a larger section of the population.
Medical Insurance
Many argue that the US healthcare system is manageable due to widespread medical insurance. However, the reality is different. The average cost of medical insurance in the US ranges between $800 and $1,500 (64k to 1.2 lakh INR) per month, and even after paying high premiums, out-of-pocket expenses remain substantial.
In India, medical insurance is far more affordable, with average monthly costs between $23 and $58 (2k to 5k INR). Despite lower insurance costs, healthcare services remain effective and accessible, proving that expensive coverage is not always necessary for quality treatment.
Quality of Healthcare: Advanced Technology vs. Efficient Services
While the US is home to some of the best medical facilities, world-class research, and top-tier doctors, these services come at a price. The high cost often discourages people from seeking immediate treatment.
The Indian healthcare system, on the other hand, offers efficient services with a mix of private and public hospitals. Many private hospitals in India have internationally accredited doctors and advanced technology but at a fraction of the cost compared to the US.
Affordability vs. Innovation: Which One Stands Out?
The US excels in medical innovation, cutting-edge treatments, and research. However, these advancements often remain out of reach for many due to high expenses. India, on the other hand, provides a cost-effective healthcare model that caters to a larger population without compromising essential medical care.
India’s healthcare system has its challenges, such as overcrowded public hospitals and inconsistent rural healthcare infrastructure. However, when comparing accessibility, affordability, and waiting times, India offers an advantage that cannot be ignored.
