Stakeholders from healthcare, tourism, and hospitality sectors have resolved to join forces to position Tiruchirappalli (Trichy) as a premier destination for medical tourism. The decision was announced at a conference on medical tourism organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Trichy zone on Monday.
Trichy's Competitive Edge Over Major Metros
Highlighting Tamil Nadu's dominance as India's medical capital, contributing nearly 40% of the nation's medical tourism, speakers acknowledged the strengths of other cities. Ajay Jayaraj, chairman of CII Trichy zone, stated, "We hold deep respect for Chennai for its scale, Vellore for its legacy, and Coimbatore for its precision. But Trichy offers a competitive edge that metros cannot match." The city's unique advantages include its international air connectivity via Trichy Airport and a growing hospitality sector.
Affordability and Integrated Services as Key Drivers
The conference emphasized that Trichy provides exceptional value for international patients. According to the CII, patients can stay and recuperate in Trichy for up to three weeks for a cost equivalent to just three days of treatment abroad or in a tier-I Indian city. This is made possible by a wide range of accommodation, from luxury hotels to service apartments that initially catered to temple tourism.
Key action points discussed include creating integrated ticketing systems, simplifying visa facilitation, and streamlining airport-to-bed logistics. Ajay Jayaraj added that insurance companies, private hospitals, and travel agents will be brought under a single umbrella to effectively cater to visitors from key markets like Malaysia and Sri Lanka.
Stakeholders Rally Behind the Vision
Local medical professionals underscored the economic benefits. Dr. M S Ashraf, patron of the Indian Medical Association, and oncologist Dr. S Arun Sesachalam spoke about the significant role medical tourism can play in boosting the regional economy.
The initiative has also received political backing. Trichy Mayor Mu Anbalagan affirmed, "The local body and state government are ready to offer the required coordination and support for positioning Trichy as a medical tourism hub." This unified approach from private and public sectors marks a significant step in transforming Trichy's healthcare landscape.
