The renowned Tata Medical Center in Mumbai is a key player in the diagnosis, treatment, and study of cancer. It has drawn attention and prompted many inquiries from patients and their families as one of the top hospitals in India. We hope to answer some of the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Tata Medical Center Mumbai in this post by offering insightful responses and knowledge. This page tries to offer clarity and direction whether you're looking for information on treatment fees, appointment protocols, or the general patient experience. Join us as we examine these crucial FAQs and provide information on the main features of the Tata Medical Center Mumbai.
The Tata Memorial Hospital is situated in Parel, Mumbai, in India. Also popularly known as TMH. It is a specialist cancer treatment and research centre, closely associated with the Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer. Wikipedia
Address: Homi Babha Building, Dr Ernest Borges Rd, Parel East, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400012
Phone: 022 2417 7000
TATA MEMORIAL HOSPITAL
Dr. E Borges Road, Parel, Mumbai - 400 012 India
Tel. +91-22- 24177000, 24177300, 24161413
Fax: +91-22-24146937
E-mail : [email protected] (for patient care and queries)
[email protected] (for feedback from patients)
[email protected] (for accounts related)
[email protected] (for donors and donation related)
[email protected] (for education and training)
[email protected] (for administrative - HRD matters)
Reference: Link
What is the total expense for cancer treatment at Tata Medical Hospital?
Determining the exact expense or even a close estimate for cancer treatment at Tata Medical Centre is challenging without considering several factors. The cost can vary depending on factors such as the type and stage of cancer, the recommended course of treatment, the specific plan devised by the doctor or oncologist, and the patient's age and overall medical condition. However, a typical range for the cost of treatment at Tata Medical Centre is around INR 7–16 lakhs. While Tata Medical Centre is known to provide excellent healthcare services, it is also acknowledged that it can be expensive. On the other hand, there are alternative options available, such as SGCCRI/Thakurpukur Cancer Hospital in Kolkata, which offers similar quality care at approximately 30% lower cost compared to other hospitals.
The expenses associated with cancer treatment depend on various factors, including the specific treatments such as chemotherapy and surgery that the patient may undergo, as well as additional costs incurred throughout the treatment process. It is important to note that besides costly medications, many aspects of treatment at Tata Memorial Centre in Mumbai are offered almost free of cost. However, it is worth mentioning that TMC Kolkata is a separate entity from TMC Mumbai.
The cost of cancer treatment can vary significantly based on factors such as the stage of cancer, the type of treatment required, whether surgery is involved, the chosen doctor and their treatment approach, as well as the specific hospital. Tata Medical Hospital has multiple branches across India, and the charges may differ between locations. For instance, the Kolkata center generally has lower costs compared to the Mumbai branch. On average, the cost of cancer treatment at Tata Medical Hospital may range from INR 10–18 lakhs, but it is important to note that these figures can vary significantly. It is also worth considering other reputable local hospitals like SGCCRI or Thakurpukur Cancer Hospital in Kolkata, which provide good quality care at a reasonable cost. It is recommended to conduct thorough research and consider individual circumstances before making a decision.
What is the average waiting period at Tata Memorial Hospital?
The waiting period at Tata Memorial Hospital can vary depending on various factors. Typically, patients may experience a waiting time of approximately six months before receiving treatment. There are several reasons for this:
Independent investigations: Patients often undergo their own diagnostic investigations, which can consume a significant amount of time.
Limited number of OPD appointments: Due to the large number of patients seeking treatment, the hospital only conducts two OPD sessions per month, resulting in limited availability.
Unofficial means of entry: Some staff members may bypass the official token system, causing delays and disruptions in the process.
Doctor availability and workloads: Certain doctors may have high patient loads or work according to their own preferences, which can impact the timing and scheduling of treatments.
While these factors contribute to the waiting period, it is essential to note that individual experiences may vary. While some patients may encounter longer waiting times, others may have shorter waiting periods based on their specific case and circumstances. It is crucial to have realistic expectations and consider these factors when seeking treatment at Tata Memorial Hospital.
What is the process for approaching Tata Memorial for immediate cancer treatment?
Tata Memorial Hospital receives a significant number of patients from across the country every year. To initiate the process, you can register online before visiting the hospital. The official website of Tata Memorial Hospital provides detailed information and contact details for registration.
Once you arrive at the hospital, you will have two options for creating a patient file: private section or general section. The general section also offers a no-charge (NC) category with minimal fees. If you require immediate treatment, it is advisable to register in the private section, as it typically has a lower patient load. The doctors will recommend various tests, and if there are long queues for the tests within the hospital, you can opt to have them done at external test centers. It is important to note that the costs for tests conducted outside the hospital may be higher, but once the treatment plan is finalized, everything will proceed according to the established plan. If desired, with the doctor's permission, you can shift to the general category during the course of treatment. Shifting to the no-charge (NC) category may require an income certificate.
Understanding the hospital's operations can be overwhelming, but as you spend time at the hospital, you will gradually learn and become familiar with the processes. Enquiry offices are available to assist you, and fellow patients are often willing to share their experiences and provide guidance.
How can I secure an earlier appointment at Tata Memorial Hospital (Mumbai) for cancer diagnosis?
To secure an earlier appointment for cancer diagnosis at Tata Memorial Hospital, you need to register online and then visit the hospital to complete the registration process in person. It is important to note that Tata Memorial Hospital accepts patients who have a confirmed diagnosis of cancer. This policy helps manage the influx of patients and avoids unnecessary time and expenditure in making a diagnosis.
When visiting the hospital, it is advisable to bring all relevant reports, including slides and blocks of biopsy samples, if the tests were conducted outside the hospital. This can expedite the review process for a confirmed cancer diagnosis since no treatment is initiated until the pathology department at Tata Memorial Hospital confirms the diagnosis.
Upon creating a new file, you will be seen on the same day, and your case will be discussed with a senior consultant. Subsequent investigations and confirmation of the diagnosis will take approximately two weeks, considering the significant number of new patients registering daily from various parts of the country.
What is the average waiting period at Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai?
The waiting period at Tata Memorial Hospital (TMH) in Mumbai can vary depending on the type of consultation you choose. If you opt for a private consultation, you are likely to receive an appointment on the same day, and if surgery is required, the date will be scheduled as soon as possible based on the criticality of the patient's condition.
The waiting period may be slightly longer if you opt for the general (non-private) consultation process. However, it is still significantly shorter compared to some other renowned hospitals like AIIMS Delhi.
In my personal experience, I received a same-day appointment for a private consultation at Tata Memorial Hospital for two different patients. In one case where surgery was necessary, the procedure was scheduled within a week of the initial appointment.
It is important to note that individual experiences may vary. While some patients may experience a relatively shorter waiting period, others may have to wait longer based on various factors. It is recommended to consult with the hospital and plan accordingly. The hospital staff can provide more specific information and guidance to help manage expectations regarding waiting periods.
FAQs About Seeking Cancer Treatment at Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai for Foreign Patients
India has long been the favored location for patients from other nations seeking medical care, particularly for serious or life-threatening disorders. Many people still rely on Indian hospitals for their competence despite the improvements in medical facilities and infrastructure in their own nations. Some Indian medical facilities, including Narayana Health, Gleneagles, Apollo Hospital, and CMC Hospital, have developed great brand recognition and are popular with international patients. Asians are known for favoring Mumbai's Tata Memorial Hospital as their favorite location for oncology care.
Non-private hospitals like CMC and Tata Memorial Hospital have not yet offered specialist services to foreign patients, whereas private hospitals have created full infrastructure to accommodate them. As a result, foreign patients seeking treatment at Tata Memorial Hospital, including Bangladeshi natives, frequently experience confusion and navigational difficulties.
To meet this demand, Treatment Possible created a special division to help patients from Bangladesh and other countries receive medical care at the Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital in Mumbai, India. Let's discuss a few frequent skepticisms and queries that people have when thinking about receiving treatment at Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital.
How can a foreign patient obtain a visa invitation from Tata Memorial Hospital?
As a foreigner, you will need to apply for a medical visa to enter India. Treatment Possible can assist you in obtaining a medical visa invitation from Tata Memorial Hospital. Simply provide us with your medical documents, along with the passports of the patient and accompanying individuals. Upon review by Tata Memorial oncologists, if it is determined that the patient can be treated at Tata Cancer Hospital, a medical visa invitation will be issued. With this invitation, you can apply for a medical visa at the Indian consulates in locations such as Gulshan (Dhaka), Uposhahar (Rajshahi), or Khulshi (Chittagong).
How can a foreign patient secure an appointment to consult an oncologist at Tata Memorial Hospital?
Once you have obtained your medical visa, you can plan your travel to Mumbai. Treatment Possible will be pleased to receive you at the airport and coordinate your appointment based on your travel dates.
How much does a foreign patient need to pay for registration at Tata Memorial Hospital?
Tata Memorial Hospital charges a one-time registration fee of Rs. 50,000 for foreigners. However, we recommend availing the consultant services at Tata without registering initially. You can choose to seek a second opinion, and if you decide to proceed with complete treatment at Tata Hospital, you can pay the registration amount at that point. It is worth noting that the international patient tariff at Tata Memorial Hospital is 25% higher than that for private patients, making it relatively more expensive compared to other budget private hospitals.
What is the waiting period at Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital, and how does it compare to private hospitals?
The waiting period at Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital depends on the specific service required. For instance, a PET scan typically entails a one-week wait, with an additional 2-3 days for the report. Biopsy investigations take around 10 days for the reports, while blood investigations require 2-3 days. On average, initial investigations can take 12-14 days. In comparison, private hospitals can often arrange a PET scan within a day, with biopsy reports available in 7 days and blood investigation reports within 1 day.
Can a patient conduct investigations in a private hospital and then consult an oncologist at Tata Memorial Hospital for opinion and treatment planning?
Yes, it is possible for a patient to undergo investigations at other certified and established hospitals or labs as per the oncologist's prescription during the first visit. Tata Memorial Hospital accepts reports from such sources. This approach can save valuable time and also reduce accommodation expenses during the waiting period.
What is the waiting period for cancer surgery at Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital?
The waiting period for cancer surgery at Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital varies depending on the type of cancer. Breast cancer surgeries typically have a waiting period of 2-3 weeks, while other cancer surgeries may require 1-2 months. Head and neck surgeries generally have a waiting period of 2 months, while brain tumor and stomach tumor surgeries have waiting periods of over 1 month.
How long is the waiting period for radiation services at Tata Memorial Hospital?
The minimum waiting period for radiation treatment at Tata Memorial Hospital is 30-45 days. It's important to note that radiation treatment typically lasts for 30-40 days, resulting in a total waiting and treatment period of 60-90 days.
If recommended, can a patient complete chemotherapy treatment in Tata Memorial Hospital or continue treatment in their home country?
If the doctors at Tata Memorial Hospital determine that chemotherapy is the appropriate treatment for a patient, the patient can complete one cycle of chemotherapy at the hospital and continue the remaining cycles in their home country. Treatment Possible can arrange for the necessary chemotherapy drugs, which the patient can carry along. We can also facilitate the procurement of these drugs at a lower cost. The oncologist will provide a chemotherapy protocol that can be followed back home. This approach can significantly reduce the expenses associated with a prolonged stay in India. For example, a 6-cycle chemotherapy regime would typically require a minimum stay of 125 days in India, considering a 21-day gap between each cycle. However, if the patient completes the first cycle at Tata Memorial Hospital and continues the remaining cycles in Bangladesh, they can return within 7 days of the first cycle, saving four months of hotel or lodge expenses.
Can a patient choose to receive treatment in another hospital after consulting an oncologist at Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital?
Yes, the choice of treatment hospital ultimately rests with the patient. In India, hospitals allow patients to make their own decisions regarding their treating doctor, hospital, and even the option to decline treatment. In such cases, Treatment Possible can assist with the necessary legal formalities involved in changing hospitals.
Is cancer treatment more expensive in private hospitals compared to Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital, particularly for foreign patients?
As mentioned earlier, the cost for foreign patients at Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital is 25% higher than the rates for private patients. Consequently, the overall cost can be relatively higher. In certain instances, surgery or radiation treatment at a budget hospital may prove to be more cost-effective for Bangladeshi patients compared to Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital.
Are the oncologists at Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital better than those at private hospitals?
Yes, the oncologists at Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital are among the best in the field. However, it's important to note that Tata Memorial Hospital is also a teaching and training institute. Many oncologists in Mumbai have received their training at Tata Memorial Hospital and have previously worked there. Therefore, patients have the option to access top-quality oncologists outside Tata Memorial as well.
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