Healthcare in Delhi

Healthcare in Delhi is split between private and government-run facilities. If you can afford it, you’ll likely choose to bypass the city’s public hospitals in favour of private healthcare, which offers better facilities and shorter wait times. 

The public healthcare system has faced ongoing challenges, including a lack of infrastructure and staff shortages, making private hospitals the go-to option for many, including medical tourists.

Finding well-qualified English-speaking medical professionals in Delhi is generally straightforward. The combination of high-quality treatment and relatively low costs has made Delhi a significant hub for medical tourism. Private hospitals here are experienced in catering to international patients, enhancing the city’s reputation as a healthcare destination.

For more detailed information on the broader healthcare landscape in India, including health insurance and other vital details, visit our Healthcare and Health Insurance for Expats in India page.

Medicines and pharmacies in Delhi

Medicines and pharmacies in Delhi are easy to find, with numerous outlets across the city offering treatments for minor ailments over the counter. Many medications are available under their generic names rather than the branded versions you might be used to. This can be a cost-effective option, but knowing the generic name of the medication you need is essential.

Pharmacies should be able to assist with imported medicines and local substitutes as long as you can provide the generic name. For example, if you’re looking for Advil, ask for ibuprofen instead. Be aware that some specific or less common medications might require visits to multiple pharmacies or ordering online.

Useful links

• Apollo Pharmacy
• MedPlus
• Netmeds

Health hazards in Delhi

Water-borne, food-borne and mosquito-borne illnesses are common in Delhi. Preventative measures, like using bottled or boiled and filtered water for drinking and brushing your teeth, are essential.

In addition to these, Delhi’s air pollution is a significant health concern, particularly during the winter months when smog levels peak. Air quality can exacerbate respiratory conditions, so it’s wise to monitor pollution levels and limit outdoor activities during high-alert days.

To protect yourself from mosquito bites, especially between dusk and dawn when they are most active, wear clothing that covers your skin as much as possible. If you stay in an area where mosquito-borne diseases like dengue or chikungunya are prevalent, consider using insect repellent and sleeping under a mosquito net.

Emergency services in Delhi

Emergency services in Delhi vary in quality, with larger private hospitals generally offering better care than government-run or smaller hospitals. Ambulance services are available at most hospitals, but road congestion can delay response times, particularly during peak traffic hours. Locals often opt to drive patients to the hospital in a private vehicle to avoid delays.

The national emergency number is 112, and you can call an ambulance by dialling 102. For quicker service, consider keeping contact details for private ambulance services listed on most hospital websites.

For a more comprehensive look at emergency services across India, visit our Healthcare and Health Insurance for Expats in India page.

Private hospitals in Delhi

Fortis Flt. Lt. Rajan Dhall Hospital

Website: www.fortishealthcare.com 
Address: Sector B, Pocket 1, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi

Madhukar Rainbow Children’s Hospital Delhi

Website: www.rainbowhospitals.in 
Address: FC-29, Plot No. 5, Geetanjali, Near Malviya Nagar Metro Station Gate No.1, New Delhi

Park Hospital

Website: www.parkhospital.in 
Address: Meera Enclave Outer Ring Road Near Kashopur, New Chaukhandi, Vishnu Garden, New Delhi

Primus Super Specialty Hospital

Website: www.primushospital.com 
Address: Chandragupta Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi