State govt plans int’l patient services in NIMS & TIMS hospitals

Hyderabad: To establish Telangana as a global healthcare destination, the state govt is planning to introduce specialised international patient services at the upcoming Telangana Institute of Medical Sciences (TIMS) hospitals in Sanathnagar, Alwal and LB Nagar, as well as at the Nizam's Institute of Medical Sciences, which is currently being expanded.According to sources within the department, each TIMS facility and the expanded NIMS will have 50 rooms designed as premium suites specifically for international patients. "These suites will be equipped to match global expectations, ensuring comfort, privacy, and specialised care. The initiative aims to attract patients from regions such as Africa and the Middle East, including Oman, as well as parts of Europe, where the demand for affordable, high-quality healthcare is increasing," said a senior health official.The move aims to bring govt-run hospitals on a par with private corporate facilities, which currently attract a large share of overseas patients. It is also part of a broader strategy to boost medical tourism in Hyderabad. The govt is preparing to hold discussions and sign memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with multiple countries to facilitate patient inflow.A major international medical tourism event scheduled for June is expected to attract delegates from Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, thereby strengthening global outreach further.Health officials also stated that attracting international patients would generate additional revenue for public hospitals. "This revenue can then be reinvested in improving infrastructure, equipment, and patient care services for local residents," said the official.In addition to patient care facilities, the govt is also proposing the development of an international convention centre at TIMS Sanathnagar. "The planned infrastructure will include a large auditorium capable of hosting global medical conferences, a dedicated research centre to promote collaboration and innovation, and guest accommodation for visiting doctors, researchers and speakers," said the official.