Factors Influencing Outbound Medical Tourism: India as the Preferred Destination for Nigerians

This study explored the factors, responsible for the exodus of Nigerians to India for medical tourism. We employed a qualitative approach and the information was retrieved from 50 participants, using an in-depth interview method. The study found factors that were responsible for this drive are as follows: Cheaper cost of treatments and procedures, referrals of doctors, aggressive marketing of agents, top-notch healthcare services, access to human organs, preference of treatment sponsors, assurance of visas, immediate healthcare services, the expertise of Indians in kidney transplant and quick turnaround time. This was the first qualitative study of its kind on the factors, responsible for the exodus of Nigerians to India for medical tourism, and it provides an insight into what the country stands to lose in terms of income. Additionally, emulating the success story of India may, in turn, assist in turning around the dwindling health system in Nigeria.