Interstate Influx of Patients in Chennai Government Hospitals

Chennai’s major government hospitals are witnessing a consistent influx of patients from neighboring states, a phenomenon attributed to factors like quality care, successful treatment outcomes, and financial constraints. The Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital (RGGGH), the state’s largest government facility, recorded a surge in patients from other states, totaling 4,032 in 2023, with 27 states represented.

Notably, Andhra Pradesh dominated the numbers, accounting for 2,125 patients, followed by West Bengal, Bihar, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh. Patients, particularly from northern states, seek specific treatments such as strokes, cardiac ailments, cancers, renal issues, and rheumatoid arthritis. Financial constraints drive individuals from distant places to approach RGGGH, where word-of-mouth recommendations about care and treatment outcomes play a crucial role.

The Government Stanley Medical College Hospital and the Institute of Child Health and Hospital for Children also reported a steady inflow of patients from states like Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala, and Karnataka, with many preferring Chennai due to its reputed healthcare services. While nominal charges are applied for patients from other states, waivers and government health schemes often ease financial burdens.