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Key Takeaway for International Patients: Fortis Escorts Heart Institute (FEHI), New Delhi, is Asia’s largest private cardiac hospital and a globally recognised centre of excellence. This 310-bed JCI and NABH accredited super-specialty hospital has treated over 500,000 patients from more than 175 countries. International patients choose FEHI for its world-class cardiac expertise at 70–90% less than Western costs, with comprehensive support including medical visa assistance, airport transfers, multilingual interpreters, personal coordinators, and accommodation support. From robotic-assisted heart bypass and TAVI to complex paediatric arrhythmia surgery and heart transplants, Fortis Escorts Heart Institute Delhi is the destination of choice for international patients seeking exceptional cardiac outcomes.
Fortis Escorts Heart Institute Delhi is Asia’s largest private cardiac hospital, offering world-class heart care to international patients from over 175 countries. With JCI and NABH accreditation, 310 beds, 9 operation theatres, and a team of internationally trained surgeons, FEHI delivers exceptional cardiac outcomes at 70–90% less than Western costs.
If you are an international patient searching for the best heart hospital in Delhi, Fortis Escorts Heart Institute (FEHI) stands as a beacon of cardiac excellence. Founded in 1988 as the Escorts Heart Institute and Research Centre, it has grown into Asia’s largest private cardiac hospital, renowned for its pioneering work in interventional cardiology, cardiac surgery, and paediatric cardiac sciences. International patients from the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, the Middle East, Africa, and beyond consistently choose FEHI for its combination of world-class expertise, advanced technology, and affordability.
Fortis Escorts Heart Institute Delhi has been recognised as the Best Hospital in Cardiology by Times Healthcare Achievers, ICICI Lombard & CNBC TV18, The Week, and ET Healthcare Awards. In 2025, the institute was recognised at the Advantage Healthcare India Medical Value Travel Awards for its outstanding contribution to Interventional Cardiology, Cardiac Surgery, and Pediatric Cardiac Sciences. In 2026, FEHI was again recognised for Best Pediatric Cardiac Sciences at the FICCI Advantage Healthcare India Medical Value Travel Awards (MVTA) 2026.
Accreditations & Certifications
Fortis Escorts Heart Institute Delhi holds the highest national and international accreditations, giving international patients peace of mind:
- Joint Commission International (JCI) – The gold standard in healthcare quality, signalling independent third-party verification of clinical outcomes, patient safety systems, and international patient management protocols
- National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH) – India’s highest national recognition for quality patient care and safety
- NABL Accreditation – For laboratory services
- ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certifications
- Medical Travel Association (MTA) Certified
JCI accreditation matters for international patients because it signals independent verification of clinical outcomes, patient safety systems, and international patient management protocols.
Infrastructure & Facilities
Fortis Escorts Heart Institute Delhi boasts state-of-the-art infrastructure designed for comprehensive cardiac care:
| Facility | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Beds | 310 beds |
| Critical Care Beds | 158 |
| Operation Theatres | 15 state-of-the-art OTs |
| Catheterisation Labs | 4 |
| Electrophysiology Labs | Dedicated EP labs |
| Blood Bank | JCI & NABH accredited |
| International Lounge | Dedicated for international patients |
The institute operates multiple Centres of Excellence, including Interventional Cardiology, Cardiac Surgery, Pediatric Cardiac Sciences, and Heart Transplantation.
Latest Achievements & Milestones (2025–2026)
Fortis Escorts Heart Institute Delhi continues to push the boundaries of cardiac care with groundbreaking achievements:
India’s First Combined Robot-Assisted Heart Bypass and Breast Cancer Surgery (May 2025)
A multidisciplinary team at Fortis Escorts Heart Institute Delhi performed India’s first combined robot-assisted heart bypass (CABG) and breast cancer surgery (radical mastectomy) in a single 11-hour procedure on a 72-year-old woman from Bangladesh. The surgery was performed robotically through small incisions on the side of the chest, avoiding the need for a large breastbone incision. This rare case marked India’s first reported successful surgical intervention, underscoring the hospital’s leadership in multidisciplinary care.
One of India’s First TRIA Mitral Valve Implants (September 2025)
Fortis Escorts Heart Institute Delhi successfully performed one of India’s first implantations of the TRIA Mitral Valve, the world’s first heart valve made from a specially engineered polymer called LifePolymer. Developed by Foldax Inc. (U.S.) and manufactured in India, this metal-free, animal-free, robotically manufactured valve eliminates the need for lifelong blood thinners. Clinical studies at FEHI revealed a 50% improvement in blood flow, a 42% increase in walking distance, and 0% valve-related deaths or repeat surgeries. India is the first country worldwide to make this breakthrough technology commercially available. Peer-reviewed research on polymer valves suggests reduced thrombogenicity and improved haemodynamics.
Donor Heart Travels 98 km via Green Corridor (April 2026)
A live donor heart was transported across 98 kilometres from Rohtak to New Delhi in just 85 minutes through a green corridor facilitated by Delhi and Rohtak Police. The rapid transport ensured the organ remained viable within the critical time window, enabling a successful transplant at Fortis Escorts Heart Institute Delhi. This feat highlights the hospital’s robust transplant programme and coordination with state authorities.
Rare Paediatric Heart Rhythm Surgery (October 2025)
Doctors at Fortis Escorts Heart Institute Delhi successfully performed a rare and life-saving electrophysiology study and radiofrequency ablation on a 7-year-old boy from Iraq weighing only 26 kilograms. The child had been suffering from incessant tachycardia with heart rates of 170–200 beats per minute. The team successfully treated the abnormal electrical pathway in a two-hour procedure. Paediatric ablations in children under 30 kilograms are rarely attempted due to the risks of damaging small heart structures and delicate blood vessels.
₹50 Lakh Grant for Advanced Cardiac Treatment (July 2026)
The Heart Valve Foundation of India (HVFI) announced a grant of ₹50 lakh to provide advanced cardiac treatment at Fortis Escorts—completely free of cost—to eligible patients referred by the Assam government. The initiative also includes concessional treatment at Assam government rates and specialised training for doctors at Gauhati Medical College & Hospital.
Medical Value Travel Awards 2025 & 2026
Fortis Escorts Heart Institute Delhi was recognised at the Advantage Healthcare India Medical Value Travel Awards 2025 for its outstanding contribution to Interventional Cardiology, Cardiac Surgery, and Pediatric Cardiac Sciences. In 2026, FEHI was again recognised for Best Pediatric Cardiac Sciences at the FICCI Advantage Healthcare India Medical Value Travel Awards (MVTA) 2026.
Robotic-Assisted Heart Surgery
Fortis Escorts Heart Institute Delhi is at the forefront of robotic cardiac surgery in India. The institute offers robot-assisted coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) through small incisions on the side of the chest, avoiding the need for a large breastbone incision. India was the first in Asia to introduce minimal access surgery and robotic surgery to treat heart disease.
Benefits of robotic heart surgery for international patients include:
- Smaller incisions – Less pain and scarring
- Faster recovery – Shorter hospital stay, allowing quicker return home
- Reduced blood loss – Lower risk of complications
- Quicker return to normal activities
The institute’s success in performing India’s first combined robot-assisted heart bypass and cancer surgery demonstrates its leadership in robotic cardiac procedures. Studies published in PubMed indicate that robotic CABG offers comparable outcomes to conventional surgery with reduced morbidity.
Structural Heart Disease & TAVI/TAVR
Fortis Escorts Heart Institute Delhi is a leading centre for the treatment of structural heart disease, offering international patients access to cutting-edge procedures:
- Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI/TAVR) – A minimally invasive alternative to open-heart surgery for aortic stenosis. FEHI was first in India to perform TAVI
- MitraClip – For mitral valve repair
- TRIA Mitral Valve Implantation – The world’s first polymer heart valve
- Transcatheter Mitral Valve Replacement (TMVR)
The hospital has performed over 500 TAVI procedures with excellent outcomes. Research on transcatheter valve interventions demonstrates high success rates and improved quality of life for patients with aortic stenosis.
Heart Transplant & Organ Donation
Fortis Escorts Heart Institute Delhi has a robust heart transplant programme. In April 2026, the institute successfully received a donor heart transported 98 kilometres via green corridor. The hospital’s organ transplant committee regularly approves liver and kidney transplants, demonstrating its comprehensive transplant capabilities.
FEHI is a recognised centre for heart transplantation, with a dedicated team of surgeons, cardiologists, and transplant coordinators. The hospital follows WHO guidelines on organ donation and transplantation.
International patients seeking heart transplants at FEHI benefit from:
- Experienced transplant team with excellent outcomes
- Transparent package costs ($28,000–$56,000)
- Comprehensive pre- and post-transplant care
- Dedicated transplant coordinators
Pediatric Cardiology
The Department of Pediatric Cardiac Sciences at Fortis Escorts Heart Institute Delhi is recognised for its expertise in treating children with complex heart conditions. It was recognised for Best Pediatric Cardiac Sciences at the MVTA 2026.
The institute has successfully performed:
- Paediatric arrhythmia ablation – Including the rare case of a 7-year-old boy from Iraq
- Paediatric cardiac surgery – For congenital heart defects
- Paediatric heart transplants
International families choose FEHI for paediatric cardiac care because of its specialist team, outcomes, and transparent packages. Multilingual interpreters can join family meetings and ward rounds.
International Patient Services
Fortis Escorts Heart Institute Delhi offers comprehensive services specifically designed for international patients:
Pre-Arrival Consultation and Planning
International patients can receive free tele- or online consultations by email or phone regarding their diagnosis and possible costs before travelling. The hospital’s international patient service team works closely with each patient to coordinate their medical care.
Visa & Travel Assistance
The dedicated international patient team provides medical visa invitation letters and assists with travel arrangements. Visa invitation letters can be provided within a couple of hours of request.
Complimentary Airport Pick-up/Drop-off
Complimentary transportation is arranged from the airport to ensure a smooth arrival and departure.
Multilingual Interpreters
Professional interpreters are available to bridge communication gaps between patients and medical staff. French, Arabic, and other language interpreters can join family meetings and ward rounds.
Express Check-in & Personalised Care
A dedicated international lounge, fast-track admission, and personal coordinators ensure seamless service and support throughout the stay. A dedicated Guest Relation Executive is appointed for each international patient.
Accommodation
Hospital-adjacent accommodation for the patient and one attendant is often included in packages—at no extra cost. Caregiver rooms or nearby hotels are arranged by your coordinator.
Dietary Care
Hospital-prescribed meals for the patient and preferred cuisine for the attendant—including Halal and Continental options.
Value-Added Services
Assistance with currency exchange, local SIM cards, customised meal plans, and more.
Post-Treatment Follow-Up
After discharge, the hospital continues to provide patients with any continuing care they may require. Teleconsultations with your doctor and recovery guidance are available after you return home.
Cost Comparison for International Patients
One of the most compelling reasons international patients choose Fortis Escorts Heart Institute Delhi is the extraordinary cost advantage. Cardiac procedures in India cost 70–90% less than in the USA, UK, and Europe.
| Procedure | Cost in USA/UK | Cost at Fortis Escorts | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heart Bypass (CABG) | $80,000–$150,000 | $4,000–$9,600 | Up to 90% |
| Heart Valve Replacement | $100,000–$170,000 | $5,500–$12,000 | Up to 90% |
| Heart Transplant | $500,000–$1,000,000 | $28,000–$56,000 | Up to 90% |
| Pacemaker Implantation | $30,000–$50,000 | $3,000–$6,000 | Up to 85% |
| Paediatric Heart Surgery | $100,000–$200,000 | $4,000–$9,600 | Up to 90% |
Real savings examples from international patients:
- Egypt patient: Saved $75,000 on heart bypass surgery at Fortis Escorts
- Guinea patient: Saved $85,000 on congenital heart surgery
- Sierra Leone patient: Saved $72,000 on maternal heart surgery
- Morocco patient: Saved $128,000 on heart transplant
As one international patient shared: “The overall spend was significantly lower than the quotes at home, without compromising on quality.”
Travel Guide for International Patients
Travel from the UK
- By Air: Direct flights from London Heathrow (LHR) to Delhi (DEL) take 8–9 hours. Flights are available on British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, and Air India.
- Visa: UK nationals require a medical visa for treatment in India. FEHI provides the required invitation letter.
Travel from the USA
- By Air: Direct flights from New York (JFK/EWR) and other major US cities to Delhi (DEL) take 14–16 hours. Flights are available on Air India, United, and American Airlines.
- Visa: US nationals require a medical visa for treatment in India. FEHI provides the required invitation letter.
Travel from the Middle East
- By Air: Direct flights from Dubai (DXB), Abu Dhabi (AUH), Doha (DOH), and Riyadh (RUH) to Delhi (DEL) take 3–4 hours.
- Visa: Most Middle Eastern nationals are eligible for e-Medical visas.
Travel from Africa
- By Air: Connecting flights via Middle Eastern hubs (Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi) to Delhi (DEL).
- Visa: Most African nationals require a medical visa. FEHI provides the required invitation letter.
For international patients arriving via air, MedicHorizon can arrange seamless airport-to-hospital transfers, ensuring a stress-free arrival experience.
Frequently Asked Questions for International Patients
Is Fortis Escorts Heart Institute Delhi JCI accredited?
Yes. Fortis Escorts Heart Institute Delhi is JCI-accredited, the gold standard in healthcare quality. It is also NABH-accredited, ISO-certified, and MTA-certified.
How much can international patients save at Fortis Escorts?
International patients typically save 70–90% compared to costs in the USA, UK, and Europe. For example, heart bypass surgery costs $4,000–$9,600 at FEHI compared to $80,000–$150,000 in the USA.
Does Fortis Escorts provide medical visa assistance?
Yes. The hospital provides medical visa invitation letters and assists with travel arrangements. Invitation letters can be provided within hours.
Are interpreters available for international patients?
Yes. Professional interpreters are available, including French, Arabic, and other languages.
Is accommodation provided for international patients?
Yes. Hospital-adjacent accommodation for the patient and one attendant is often included in packages—at no extra cost.
How long do I need to stay in India?
A typical hospital stay is 7–10 days, with many patients planning 3–4 weeks total in India for recovery and follow-up before long-haul travel.
What procedures does Fortis Escorts specialise in?
FEHI is a dedicated cardiac centre specialising in interventional cardiology, cardiac surgery, paediatric cardiac sciences, heart transplantation, TAVI, robotic surgery, and electrophysiology.
How do I get started?
Contact MedicHorizon today for a free consultation. Share your medical reports, and we’ll arrange a video consultation with a FEHI specialist within 48 hours.
Critical warning for international patients: Fortis Escorts Heart Institute Delhi is a globally recognised centre of excellence, but international patients should always verify their package details, including what is covered and what is not. Always choose JCI-accredited hospitals with verified international patient programmes. MedicHorizon only partners with hospitals that meet the highest international standards. Your cardiac treatment is life-changing—choose quality and transparency, not just the lowest price.
How MedicHorizon Assists with Your Treatment Journey
MedicHorizon is a trusted medical concierge for international patients seeking treatment in India. We provide end-to-end facilitation for your journey to Fortis Escorts Heart Institute Delhi:
Private Consultation: We arrange confidential consultations with India’s leading cardiac specialists at Fortis Escorts Heart Institute Delhi.
Surgeon & Hospital Matching: We connect you with JCI-accredited hospitals like FEHI and internationally trained specialists who understand the expectations of discerning patients.
Medical Visa Assistance: We expedite your medical visa with the required hospital invitation letter and guide you through the documentation requirements for cardiac treatment.
Flight & Travel Arrangements: We coordinate travel from your home country to Delhi.
Accommodation: We arrange hotels or recovery suites near Fortis Escorts Heart Institute Delhi for you and your companion.
Personal Airport Transfers: Complimentary chauffeured transfers from the airport to your hotel and hospital.
Personal Coordinator: A dedicated coordinator accompanies you throughout your journey — from admission to discharge and follow-up.
Hospital Coordination: Our coordinator meets you on arrival, handles all admissions, and liaises with your medical team daily.
Private Recovery Options: We arrange recovery retreats, private nursing, and wellness therapies.
Post-Treatment Follow-Up: Teleconsultations with your Indian specialist after your return home.
Value-Added Services: Meal plans, prayer room access, local SIM, currency exchange, and curated cultural experiences.
Important: MedicHorizon is a health hospitality consultancy, not a medical provider. All medical decisions remain between you and your physicians.
Ready to Begin Your Cardiac Treatment Journey in India?
Fortis Escorts Heart Institute Delhi offers world-class cardiac care with JCI accreditation, internationally trained surgeons, and 95%+ success rates. Patients from over 175 countries have chosen FEHI for life-saving cardiac treatment—saving 70–90% compared to Western costs.
Whether you need bypass surgery, valve replacement, TAVI, a heart transplant, or paediatric cardiac care, India is ready to welcome you with the highest standards of care and hospitality.
Contact Our Team Today for a Private Consultation →
We’ll connect you with India’s finest cardiac surgeons at Fortis Escorts Heart Institute Delhi, arrange your visa invitation letter, and ensure every detail of your journey exceeds your expectations.
📧 Email: contactmedichorizon@gmail.com
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Legal Disclaimer: This article is for general informational and educational purposes only. MedicHorizon is a health hospitality consultancy, not a medical provider, hospital, or licensed medical practitioner. We do not diagnose, treat, prescribe, or offer medical opinions. All information regarding Fortis Escorts Heart Institute Delhi is based on publicly available data and does not constitute medical advice. You should independently verify all information and consult with qualified healthcare professionals before making any treatment decisions. Any medical procedure carries inherent risks. By using our services, you acknowledge that all medical decisions remain solely your responsibility.