A travel vlogger from the United States, Mackenzie, from the vlogging duo UNSTUK with Mac & Keen, recently shared her amazement at the affordability and quality of India’s healthcare system. In an Instagram video, she explained how her partner, Keenan, became very sick while they were travelling in India. She had expected high costs and long waits similar to her experiences in the US and UK, but she was surprised by the reality in India.
Quick and Efficient Service
A local friend helped Mackenzie schedule a doctor’s visit for Keenan. She was shocked to learn that patients in India can schedule medical tests at any time, and receive blood test results the next day. In contrast, lab test appointments in the US can take days or even weeks. She shared a clip showing a nurse drawing blood from Keenan’s arm and expressed her initial worry about the costs.
Low Costs
Mackenzie was blown away when she found out the entire test cost just $14 (approximately ₹1,100). She wrote in the video caption, “I guess this is how India keeps 1.4 billion people alive!” The video has since gone viral, with over five million views and 2.3 lakh likes.
Reactions from Others
Many people commented on Mackenzie’s video, sharing their thoughts and experiences. One user mentioned being shocked by the long wait times for surgery or emergency needs in the UK. Another pointed out that many people travel to India for affordable and efficient medical treatment, highlighting the country’s medical tourism industry.
Personal Experiences
Another person commented, “Indian healthcare for those who have money is phenomenal. Indian healthcare for those who live below the poverty line is abysmal.”
Others shared their personal experiences with healthcare in India versus other countries. One user, living in the US, expressed frustration with the high costs and difficulty finding doctors. They mentioned paying $470 a month for insurance yet struggling to get appointments with specialists.
Another user praised India’s services, mentioning blood tests at home, online doctor consultations, and quick grocery delivery, noting that India is doing well in these areas.
-Prisha Jaiswal