Chicago, Illinois, USA: Kristen Fischer, an American living in Delhi with a social media following of over 255,000 on Instagram, recently shared her experience at a local hospital, sparking widespread discussion about healthcare accessibility in India compared to the United States.
Fischer, a web developer and influencer, recounted how a deep cut on her finger while chopping vegetables led her to seek medical attention. She cycled to a nearby hospital and visited the emergency department, where the doctor informed her that stitches were unnecessary. Her wound was cleaned and bandaged, and she was able to return home shortly after paying just ₹50 (approximately $0.57).
The convenience and low cost of care impressed her greatly. Speaking about the incident, Fischer said, “I had a hospital in my neighborhood that I could reach on my bicycle. I went to the emergency room, and there was no waiting at all.”
She contrasted this experience with the situation in her home country. “In the U.S., even a simple emergency room visit can cost at least $2,000 upfront,” she noted, emphasizing the stark difference in healthcare costs between the two nations.
Fischer’s observations are supported by data from the World Bank’s 2022 Global Health Expenditure database. According to the report, the U.S. spends $12,434.43 per person on health annually, whereas India’s per capita health expenditure is only $79.52, highlighting the enormous cost gap between the countries.
The Instagram post received widespread positive feedback from the online community. Users shared their own experiences of healthcare in India, with many praising the accessibility and generosity of medical professionals. One commenter mentioned doctors who provide care free of charge, while another said, “India has an abundance of medical help, and it never feels like it comes with strings attached.”
Others recalled personal experiences from decades ago. One user shared, “Twenty years ago, I spent a week in an Indian hospital for dysentery, and the total bill was just $97. The equivalent cost in the U.S. is terrifying to think about.”
