Bangladesh-India Deal Eases Access to Healthcare

Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma.

A new partnership between Bangladesh’s Rhythm Group and India’s Manipal Hospitals aims to streamline medical tourism, making it easier for Bangladeshi patients to access advanced treatment in India.

The agreement was signed at a ceremony attended by Pranay Verma, who described the initiative as a reflection of growing people-centric cooperation between the two neighbouring countries.

Under the deal, patients from Bangladesh will receive comprehensive support, including medical consultations, hospital selection, travel arrangements and post-treatment coordination. The initiative is expected to simplify what has often been a complex process for those seeking specialised care abroad.

Officials from both sides said the partnership would improve access to quality and affordable healthcare while strengthening cross-border collaboration in the medical sector.

The arrangement combines the logistical and travel expertise of Rhythm Group with the extensive clinical network of Manipal Hospitals, which operates dozens of facilities with thousands of beds and specialists across India.

Services under the partnership will include assistance with second medical opinions, review of medical reports and personalised guidance to help patients choose appropriate treatment options.

Patients will also benefit from coordinated travel support, including accommodation and preferential airfare arrangements through airline partnerships, ensuring a smoother overall experience.

In addition, both organisations plan to introduce a digital consultation platform, allowing patients to connect with specialist doctors remotely before travelling.

Looking ahead, the two sides have expressed interest in establishing a multidisciplinary hospital in Bangladesh through a joint venture, aimed at strengthening local healthcare capacity and reducing the need for overseas treatment.