Kupanga
What I Would Verify Before Travelling for Treatment
The checklist I would follow before sending my own parents abroad for treatment: doctors, hospitals, estimates, recovery and the trip home.
When my father needed care, I learnt that the hard part is not finding a hospital. It is knowing which questions to ask before you trust one. This is the list I would use for my own family, and it is the list we use for every patient.
1. The Doctor, by Name
Not “a senior surgeon” — a name. Then check the registration: every doctor in India must be registered with the National Medical Commission or a State Medical Council. Ask how many times a year they perform your procedure.
2. The Hospital, for Your Condition
A hospital can be excellent at cardiac surgery and ordinary at spinal surgery. Ask about the department, not the building: intensive care, blood bank, and the team that handles complications at 2 a.m. Check NABH or JCI accreditation on the official lists.
3. A Second Opinion, and a Third
If one doctor recommends surgery, ask another. If they agree, you travel with confidence. If they disagree, you have learnt something important before buying a ticket.
4. The Estimate, in Writing and Itemised
Room category, surgeon, anaesthesia, implants, medicines, tests and expected days. What happens if you stay longer, and what is not included? (See how estimates become confusing.)
5. The Recovery Plan
Where you will stay after discharge, how far from the hospital, who checks on you, and when it is safe to fly home.
6. Follow-Up at Home
Who your doctor at home will talk to, whether you receive your full records, and whether you can ask questions by video after you return.
7. The Money Trail
Who you pay, how, and a receipt for everything. We never collect cash, and nobody should ask you to.
8. Your Right to Say No
A good facilitator tells you when not to travel. If someone only ever says yes, be careful. (See how we decide when not to accept a case.)
Maswali ambayo watu huuliza
How can I check a doctor’s registration in India?
Ask for the registration number and the council that issued it, then search the National Medical Commission’s Indian Medical Register or that State Medical Council’s website.
Is one opinion enough?
For major procedures we recommend at least two independent opinions. We can arrange both before you travel.
Vyanzo
Imekaguliwa Oktoba 2026. Kanuni na takwimu hubadilika — thibitisha kwenye ukurasa rasmi kabla ya kusafiri.
