Premier Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai: 560-Bed India’s First Corporate Hospital
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Premier Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai: 560-Bed India’s First Corporate Hospital

20 min read By Dr. Munaf Ahmad Ansari

1. Overview of Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai

Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai is a premier quaternary care facility that stands as a landmark institution in Indian healthcare. Established in 1983 by Dr. Prathap C. Reddy, it was India’s first corporate hospital and remains the flagship institution of the Apollo Group, Asia’s largest integrated healthcare provider. Located in the heart of the Tamil Nadu capital, this facility has attracted patients from over 120 nations across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and the Americas, including a steady flow of medical travelers from Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and beyond.

Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai is widely recognised as a trailblazer in the Indian healthcare industry, having introduced technologies and procedures that were once only available in the world’s most advanced medical centres. It was the first hospital in India to perform coronary angioplasty, stereotactic radiotherapy, and radiosurgery for brain tumours. Its record of pioneering achievements also includes India’s first successful pancreas transplant and Asia’s first en-bloc combined heart and liver transplant—milestones that continue to draw patients seeking complex, high-acuity care.

The hospital features over 560 beds, with 46 ICU beds and 60 critical care beds, 15 advanced modular operation theatres, and dedicated ICUs across multiple specialties. Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai admits over 2,200 patients daily and provides medical care to more than 20,000 international patients every year. When you choose Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai for your medical journey, you are choosing India’s first corporate hospital and a global leader in advanced medical care.

Apollo Hospitals Group announced its seventh consecutive JCI reaccreditation for its flagship hospital, Apollo Greams Road, completed in March 2024. The hospital is also the first in South India to achieve JCI accreditation.

As a health hospitality consultancy, MedicHorizon works closely with the International Patient Services departments at Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai. We help international patients navigate the initial enquiry, medical report submission, and hospital-matching process. Our role is purely facilitative — we coordinate logistics and communication, while all medical decisions and clinical outcomes remain strictly between you and the treating physicians at the hospital.

2. Centres of Excellence and Key Specialties

Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai is home to over 60 departments and Centers of Excellence, making it a comprehensive healthcare destination for patients from around the world.

Cardiology and Cardiothoracic Surgery

Cardiac care is the cornerstone of Apollo’s legacy. The hospital houses one of the largest cardiac groups in the world, with multiple dedicated heart institutes and hundreds of cardiac surgeons and cardiologists. With over 152,000 cardiac and cardiothoracic surgeries successfully completed, Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai has solidified its position as a leader in advanced heart and chest surgery.

Key Procedures: Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG), Angioplasty and Stenting, Heart Valve Replacement and Repair, Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI), Robotic-Assisted Cardiac Surgeries, Paediatric Cardiac Surgeries, and Heart Transplants.

Recent Achievements:

  • India’s First Edwards SAPIEN 3 Ultra RESILIA Valve Implantation: Apollo Hospitals Chennai created history by performing India’s first implantation of the Edwards SAPIEN 3 Ultra RESILIA valve (TAVI), a breakthrough that offers patients with severe aortic stenosis a safer treatment option.
  • First S-ICD Implant: A Subcutaneous Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (S-ICD) was successfully implanted at Apollo Hospitals, Greams Road, offering a safer, less invasive option for patients at risk of sudden cardiac arrest. The S-ICD delivers life-saving defibrillation without placing leads inside the heart, helping reduce long-term complications.
  • Breakthrough in Complex Coronary Care: Apollo Chennai achieved a breakthrough in complex cardiac care using advanced CHIP (Complex High-Risk Indicated Procedure) technique and ELCA (Excimer Laser Coronary Angioplasty). The team reopened a completely occluded 12-year-old stent using laser angioplasty and successfully treated a 15-year-old stent with severe restenosis. Both patients made excellent recoveries and were discharged within 48 hours.

Neurosciences

The neuroscience department at Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai provides integrated, comprehensive care for brain and spine conditions. The team addresses over 300 types of neurological conditions, including epilepsy, stroke, dementia, and movement disorders. The hospital was a pioneer in introducing stereotactic radiosurgery for brain tumours in India, and it continues to leverage advanced neuro-navigation systems for precise, personalised treatment.

Key Procedures: Complex Brain Tumour Surgery, Acute Stroke Management, Spinal Fusion and Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, Epilepsy Surgery, Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) for Parkinson’s disease, and Endovascular Coiling for aneurysms.

Recent Achievement:

  • Tamil Nadu’s First Centre of Excellence for Parkinson’s Disease & Deep Brain Stimulation: Apollo Hospitals Greams Lane launched Tamil Nadu’s first Centre of Excellence dedicated to Parkinson’s Disease and Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). The centre has carried out the highest number of DBS procedures in Tamil Nadu and has performed India’s first Medtronic BrainSense DBS surgery, which uses real-time neural sensing and adaptive stimulation. The centre is led by internationally trained specialists, bringing global standards to Apollo Hospitals.

Orthopaedics and Joint Replacement

The orthopaedics department at Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai specialises in joint replacements, advanced arthroscopic procedures, and robotic-assisted surgeries for spine and trauma cases. The hospital is known for its computer-assisted total knee replacement and has performed thousands of successful joint replacement surgeries.

Key Procedures: Total Knee Replacement (TKR), Total Hip Replacement (THR), Shoulder Replacement, Arthroscopic Surgeries (e.g., ACL reconstruction), Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, and Trauma and Fracture Management.

Recent Achievement:

  • Apollo Knee Clinic Launched (August 2025): Apollo Hospitals Chennai launched the ‘Apollo Knee Clinic’, a comprehensive solution for knee pain integrating prevention, early diagnosis, surgical intervention, and rehabilitation. The clinic operates at the Greams Road campus and other Apollo locations. More than four million people above 60 years and more than six million across all age groups need help for knee disorders.

Gastroenterology and Hepatobiliary Sciences

Apollo’s gastroenterology department at Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai provides advanced treatment for a wide range of digestive conditions, supported by the latest endoscopic technologies. The department is one of the most consulted services at the hospital, drawing patients from across India and abroad for complex hepatobiliary conditions.

Key Procedures: ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography), Endoscopic Ultrasound, Liver Disease Diagnostics, Hepatobiliary Surgeries, and Comprehensive Management of GI and Colorectal Cancers.

Recent Achievement:

  • 50+ Liver Transplants Under CMCHIS (September 2025): Apollo Hospitals, Chennai, completed more than 50 liver transplants under the Chief Minister’s Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme (CMCHIS), demonstrating its commitment to accessible healthcare.

Oncology

Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai is a premier cancer care destination, offering a full spectrum of oncology services under one roof. The hospital was the first in India to introduce stereotactic radiotherapy for brain tumours and continues to lead in precision cancer treatment.

Key Technologies: CyberKnife® (non-invasive radiosurgery), TrueBeam STX (high-precision radiation therapy), Medical Oncology (chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy), Surgical Oncology, Radiation Oncology (IMRT, stereotactic radiosurgery), and Bone Marrow Transplant.

Nephrology, Urology and Organ Transplantation

Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai is a global leader in organ transplantation. The Apollo group has performed more than 21,000 kidney transplants to date, and the Greams Road facility alone has successfully performed over 32 heart transplants, 25 lung transplants, and 7 heart-double lung transplants. The nephrology team treats over 10,000 patients annually for kidney-related issues and operates a comprehensive dialysis unit.

Key Procedures: Kidney Transplant (both living and cadaveric), Liver Transplant, Heart Transplant, Lung Transplant, Pancreas Transplant, and Combined Multi-Organ Transplants (including heart-liver and heart-lung-kidney).

Robotic Surgery

Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai is at the forefront of robotic-assisted surgery in India. The hospital is equipped with the Da Vinci Robotic Surgical System, the most advanced platform for minimally invasive surgery available today. More than 5,000 Da Vinci robotic procedures have been successfully performed at this facility.

Key Robotic Surgery Applications: Urology (prostate, bladder, and kidney cancer), Cardiac Surgery (valve repair, coronary artery bypass), Gastrointestinal & Colorectal Surgery, Bariatric & Metabolic Surgery, Gynaecology (fibroids, endometriosis, cervical cancer), Head & Neck Surgery, and Paediatric Urology.

Beyond the Da Vinci system, the hospital also utilises other advanced robotic platforms such as the Hugo™ Robotic-Assisted Surgery System and ExcelsiusGPS® for spine surgeries.

Recent Achievement:

  • Dr. N. Ragavan Achieves 1,500 Robotic-Assisted Urological Surgeries: Dr. N. Ragavan, Senior Consultant Urologist, Uro-Oncologist and Robotic Surgeon at Apollo Hospitals, Greams Road, Chennai, successfully completed 1,500 da Vinci robotic-assisted procedures, becoming the first surgeon within the Apollo Hospitals Group in India to reach this remarkable benchmark. This milestone reflects Apollo Chennai’s continued commitment to innovation and excellence in surgical care.

3. Advanced Technology and Infrastructure

Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai boasts a formidable technological infrastructure designed to support complex diagnostic and therapeutic interventions:

  • Bed Capacity: Over 560 beds, with 46 ICU beds and 60 critical care beds
  • Operating Theatres: 15 advanced modular operation theatres, including 13 state-of-the-art suites
  • Critical Care: Dedicated ICUs across multiple specialties, including cardiac, neuro, neonatal, and medical intensive care units
  • Emergency Services: 24/7 comprehensive emergency and trauma department with advanced life support ambulances
  • 640-Slice Aquilion One Prism CT Scanner: For ultra-fast, high-resolution imaging
  • 3 Tesla MRI Machines: For advanced diagnostic imaging
  • CyberKnife®: Non-invasive radiosurgery system for treating tumours with sub-millimetre precision
  • TrueBeam STX: High-precision radiation therapy system
  • Renaissance™ Robotic Technology: For complex spine surgery
  • Da Vinci Robotic Surgical System: For minimally invasive robotic procedures
  • Hugo™ Robotic-Assisted Surgery System: Advanced robotic platform
  • Laboratory Services: NABL-accredited clinical laboratory
  • Blood Bank: State-of-the-art blood bank
  • Pharmacy: 24-hour pharmacy managing more than 10,000 pharmacy walk-ins daily
  • Patient Amenities: Prayer rooms, secure lockers, comfortable recovery suites

International patients at Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai benefit from dedicated international lounges, fast-track admission, and personal coordinators who ensure seamless service and support throughout the stay. A dedicated Guest Relation Executive is appointed for each international patient. The hospital provides hospital-prescribed meals for patients and preferred cuisine for attendants, including Halal and Continental options, ensuring that international patients feel comfortable and well-cared for.

4. Accreditations and Quality Standards

Quality and patient safety are paramount at Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai. The hospital holds an impressive portfolio of prestigious accreditations that validate its commitment to excellence:

  • JCI Accreditation: Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai became the first facility in South India to achieve JCI accreditation and has successfully maintained it through seven consecutive reaccreditations, with the latest completed in March 2024.
  • NABH Accreditation: The National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH) certifies that Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai adheres to Indian quality standards across all clinical and administrative functions.
  • NABL Accreditation: The laboratory services are accredited by the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories.
  • ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 Certifications: In 2003, Apollo became the first hospital in India to receive both quality management and environmental management certifications.

The Government of India has officially designated the hospital as a “Centre of Excellence” for its exceptional healthcare services. It has also been repeatedly voted the “Best Private Sector Hospital in India” by The Week magazine and consistently ranks among the top five multispecialty hospitals in the country.

In 2025, Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai was recognised with 4 Gold Awards and 2 Silver Awards at the PRSI State Awards 2025 for outstanding achievements in strategic communication and public engagement. The hospital also received multiple awards at the Economic Times Healthcare Awards 2025, reaffirming its leadership in clinical excellence and patient care.

For international patients, these accreditations provide peace of mind, knowing that the care delivered at Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai meets the highest internationally benchmarked standards of quality and safety. You can verify NABH-accredited hospitals on the official NABH website for additional assurance.

5. Affordability and Cost Transparency

A major advantage for international patients considering treatment at Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai is the significant cost savings. Medical procedures are provided at a fraction of the cost compared to Western countries, without compromising on quality.

Here are indicative cost ranges for common procedures at Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai:

ProcedureEstimated Cost (USD)Typical Cost in USASavings
Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery (CABG)$4,000 – $6,500$80,000 – $150,000Up to 90%
Total Knee Replacement$3,800 – $11,000$40,000 – $70,000Up to 85%
Total Hip Replacement$4,200 – $5,000$40,000 – $70,000Up to 85%
Heart Transplant$30,000 – $50,000$500,000 – $1,000,000Up to 95%
Liver Transplant$25,000 – $37,500$500,000 – $800,000Up to 95%
Kidney Transplant$12,000 – $18,000$250,000 – $400,000Up to 95%
Bone Marrow Transplant$18,000 – $35,000$200,000 – $500,000Up to 90%
Cancer Treatment (full course)$800 – $35,000$50,000 – $150,000Up to 85%

Note: These are indicative ranges. Actual costs at Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai vary based on patient condition, specific procedures, and length of hospital stay. Consultation fees typically range from USD 10–20 per visit. Additional costs such as travel, accommodation, and attendant expenses are not included and will be discussed separately during your consultation.

Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai offers transparent pricing with detailed cost breakdowns. The hospital’s international patient team provides clear, itemised estimates before treatment begins, eliminating surprises.

6. International Patient Services and Coordination

Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai has a dedicated International Patient Services desk that caters to medical travellers from over 30 countries, including Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, African nations, the Middle East, and beyond.

The IPS team at Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai provides end-to-end support, including:

  • Treatment plan estimation and cost transparency
  • Medical visa invitation letters and documentation
  • Airport pickup and drop-off arrangements
  • Language interpretation services
  • Assistance with accommodation near the hospital
  • Follow-up teleconsultations after discharge
  • Currency exchange and local SIM card assistance
  • Customised meal plans including international cuisines

Pre-Arrival Consultation and Planning

International patients can receive free tele-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. English, Tamil, Hindi, Bengali, Arabic, and other language interpreters can join family meetings and ward rounds.

Personalised Care & Dedicated Coordinator

A dedicated international patient coordinator ensures seamless service and support throughout the stay. A dedicated Guest Relation Executive is appointed for each international patient.

Accommodation Arrangements

Hospital-adjacent accommodation for the patient and one attendant is arranged. Caregiver rooms or nearby hotels are available for international patients.

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.

Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai has treated thousands of international patients from over 120 nations. The hospital’s International Patient Services Department ensures every international patient receives the highest level of care and hospitality.

As a health hospitality consultancy, MedicHorizon works closely with this IPS department. We help international patients navigate the initial enquiry, medical report submission, and hospital-matching process with Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai. Our role is purely facilitative—we coordinate logistics and communication, while all medical decisions and clinical outcomes remain strictly between you and the treating physicians at Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai.

Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai

7. Location and Accessibility

Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai is strategically located in the heart of Chennai:

Address: Apollo Hospitals, Greams Road, 21, Greams Lane, Off Greams Road, Thousand Lights, Chennai – 600006, Tamil Nadu, India

Distance from Key Transport Hubs

  • Chennai International Airport (MAA): Approximately 17 km – 45 minutes by road
  • Thousand Lights Metro Station (Blue Line): 450 metres – approximately 3 minutes
  • Chennai Egmore Railway Station: 2.2 km – approximately 10 minutes

Nearby Hotels

Multiple accommodation options are available near Greams Road and Thousand Lights area, including budget guesthouses and serviced apartments. MedicHorizon can help arrange suitable lodging based on your preferences and budget.

Languages Spoken

English, Tamil, Hindi, Bengali, Arabic, and several other languages. Professional interpretation services are available upon request.

For international patients arriving via air, MedicHorizon can arrange seamless airport-to-hospital transfers to Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai, ensuring a stress-free arrival experience.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How do I start the process for treatment at Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai?

Simply reach out to us via the contact form on our website. One of our patient coordinators will respond within 24 hours to understand your medical condition, review your reports (if available), and begin matching you with the right specialist at Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai.

Q2: What is the typical waiting time for surgery at Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai?

Once you arrive in Chennai, surgery is typically scheduled within 3–7 days, depending on the procedure, pre-operative tests required, and the surgeon’s availability. We work to expedite the process for international patients coming to Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai.

Q3: Can I bring a family member or caregiver to Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai?

Yes. India’s medical visa allows for up to two attendants to accompany the patient. We will arrange Medical Attendant Visas for your caregivers and coordinate their accommodation as well.

Q4: Is Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai safe for international patients?

Absolutely. Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai holds JCI and NABH accreditations—the same international quality standards followed by top hospitals in the US, UK, and Europe. The hospital has dedicated International Patient Services and maintains the highest protocols for infection control, patient safety, and confidentiality.

Q5: What payment methods are accepted at Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai?

Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai accepts cash (Indian Rupees, US Dollars, and other major currencies), credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express), and wire transfers. We can also assist with insurance coordination if you have international health coverage.

Q6: Will language be a barrier at Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai?

Most doctors, nurses, and administrative staff at Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai speak fluent English. For patients requiring other languages (Tamil, Hindi, Bengali, Arabic, etc.), we can arrange professional interpretation services at no extra cost.

Q7: What is the success rate for major procedures at Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai?

Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai has excellent clinical outcomes. The hospital has performed over 152,000 cardiac surgeries and 21,000 kidney transplants across the Apollo network, with success rates comparable to the world’s best institutions. It is a recognised leader in complex procedures such as multi-organ transplants, robotic surgeries, and cancer care.

Q8: How do I obtain a medical visa for treatment at Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai?

We will assist you with the entire medical visa process for Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai. The key steps are:

  1. Receive a treatment plan and cost estimate from the hospital.
  2. Obtain an invitation letter from Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai (we coordinate this for you).
  3. Submit your visa application at the Indian embassy/consulate in your country with supporting documents.
  4. Register at the Foreigner’s Regional Registration Office (FRRO) within 14 days of arrival—our team will help you with this.
  5. Receive your e-Medical Visa (typically within 5–10 working days).

9. How MedicHorizon Assists with Your Medical Journey

Choosing the right hospital for a critical procedure is a significant decision. Unlike dealing directly with a hospital’s international desk—which may offer limited support after initial admission—we provide end-to-end facilitation that covers every stage of your medical travel. When you choose Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai through us, we help with:

Pre-Arrival Consultation and Treatment Planning: We review your medical records and help you select the right specialist at Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai. We coordinate remote consultations with the hospital’s doctors for a second opinion or pre-treatment assessment.

Medical Visa Assistance: We guide you through the e-Medical Visa application process and provide the necessary invitation letters from Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai. We assist with documentation, embassy coordination, and ensure compliance with visa regulations.

Travel and Accommodation Arrangements: We help book affordable flights to Chennai International Airport (MAA). We arrange comfortable, hygienic accommodation options near Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai—from budget guesthouses to serviced apartments—suitable for patients and their families. We provide airport pickup and drop-off services.

Hospital Admission and Daily Coordination: On arrival, our coordinator meets you at Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai to assist with admission formalities. We liaise with the hospital’s medical team on your behalf for any questions or concerns.

Financial and Insurance Assistance: We help you understand payment procedures (cash, credit card, wire transfer). For patients with international health insurance, we coordinate with your insurer and the hospital’s TPA desk for cashless treatment wherever possible.

Post-Treatment Follow-Up and Recovery Support: We arrange post-discharge consultations and follow-up care as advised by your doctor at Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai. Even after you return home, we stay in touch to ensure your recovery is on track and to facilitate tele-consultations with your Apollo Chennai doctor if needed.

Value-Added Services: We assist with currency exchange and acquiring a local Indian SIM card, customised meal plans catering to international cuisines, and access to prayer rooms and secure lockers for personal belongings.

Important: MedicHorizon does not provide medical advice, guarantee treatment outcomes, or assume responsibility for the clinical services rendered by Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai. All medical decisions are solely between you and the hospital’s licensed physicians. The hospital bill is payable directly to Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai; our charges cover only the coordination and hospitality services described above.

Ready to Explore Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai?

Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai is India’s first corporate hospital and a global leader in advanced medical care. With JCI accreditation, world-class specialists, and patients from over 120 nations, Apollo offers life-saving treatment at 70–90% less than Western costs.

Whether you need cardiac surgery, cancer treatment, organ transplantation, or paediatric care, Apollo 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 medical specialists at Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai, arrange your visa invitation letter, and ensure every detail of your journey exceeds your expectations.

📧 Email: contactmedichorizon@gmail.com

🌐 Website: MedicHorizon Treatments Directory


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 Apollo Hospitals Greams Road Chennai 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.


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