Perceived Quality, Cost and Support Services Influencing Health Care Utilisation Among International Patients in a Private Tertiary Care Hospital in Ahmedabad, India: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Medical Value Travel (MVT) is rapidly growing due to rising healthcare costs and limited access to quality care in many countries. India has emerged as a major destination because of affordable treatment and advanced health care services. Aim: To identify factors influencing the utilisation of health care services among the international patients and assess patient perceptions and hospital selection in a leading private tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted for six months from February 2019 to July 2019 among 42 international patients at a leading private tertiary care hospital in Ahmedabad, India. Participants were selected by purposive sampling. Data were collected using a researcher-developed structured questionnaire and analysed using descriptive statistics. Results: Most participants were foreign nationals (n=25, 59.5%) and belonged to middle- and upper-income groups (n=35, 83.3%). Cardiac and neurological procedures were the most common treatments. High satisfaction was observed for doctor accessibility, translator support, personalised care, and clinical infrastructure. Quality of health care, affordability, shorter waiting times, visa support and logistical assistance were major factors influencing hospital choices. Conclusion: Healthcare quality, affordability, and patientcentred support significantly influence Medical Tourism utilisation. Improving transparency in pricing and strengthening support services may further enhance the position of India in the Global MVT market.