City in Tamil Nadu, India
Healthcare in Chennai: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Chennai
Chennai is a medical-tourism hub with excellent private hospitals at a fraction of Western prices. Ambulances (108) are slow in traffic; take a cab for urgent care.
Hospitals for foreigners in Chennai
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Apollo Hospitals, Greams Road | Large private hospital with international patient desk |
| MIOT International | Major private hospital; strong orthopedics and trauma |
| Fortis Malar Hospital | Private hospital in Adyar |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: ₹400–1,200 ($4.2–12.5) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In India: Private hospitals in big cities (Apollo, Fortis, Max, Manipal) are excellent and cheap by Western standards; public hospitals are crowded and rural care is basic.
- Pharmacies: Chemists on every street sell many medicines without prescription; chains like Apollo Pharmacy are reliable. Check expiry dates.
- Health spending: US$85 per person a year (2023); 0.7 doctors per 1,000 people (2020), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 100 · Ambulance 108 · Fire 101 · Tourist police 1363 · All emergencies 112.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter India, but treatment for visitors is paid upfront.
| Insurer | Good for |
|---|---|
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Monthly subscription for nomads and long trips; cancel anytime. |
| Genki | Health insurance for nomads, from a European insurer. |
| World Nomads | Trip insurance that covers many adventure activities. |
| Heymondo | Single-trip, annual and long-stay plans with a medical app. |
| IMG Global | Travel medical and long-term international health plans. |
Quick answers
What is the best hospital in Chennai for foreigners?
Apollo Hospitals, Greams Road: Large private hospital with international patient desk
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Chennai?
About ₹400–1,200 ($4.2–12.5) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for India?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in India expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about Chennai
Going to Chennai solo?
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: India
- Chennai Metro Rail
- Chennai Airport (Airports Authority of India)
- Metropolitan Transport Corporation Chennai
- Southern Railway
SoloSquare has no commercial relationship with the insurers listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.