▸ What's included? Oncology covers the full range of cancer care: surgery (open, laparoscopic, or robotic), chemotherapy, radiation therapy (including advanced techniques like CyberKnife, IMRT, and Proton Therapy), immunotherapy, targeted therapy, bone marrow transplants, and palliative care. The best international cancer centres operate on a tumour board model — meaning a multidisciplinary team of specialists reviews every case together before recommending a treatment plan. For patients seeking a second opinion or access to newer therapies, this approach can genuinely change outcomes. ▸ Why do patients travel abroad for this? Cancer treatment in the US can cost $100,000–$500,000+ depending on the type, stage, and duration of treatment. At JCI and NABH-accredited cancer hospitals in India, comparable technology and similarly trained oncologists are available at a fraction of that cost — and with wait times that are often weeks, not months. Germany and South Korea are leading destinations for precision oncology, advanced immunotherapy, and expert second opinions, particularly for complex or rare cases. ▸ What affects the outcome? The stage and type of cancer at diagnosis is the most significant variable in any outcome — this holds true everywhere. After that, the quality of the multidisciplinary team, the specific protocol used, and continuity between the treating hospital and the patient's home physician all matter. Before leaving for treatment, make sure your overseas oncologist and your doctor at home have a shared plan — including what follow-up care looks like when you return. This coordination can be the difference between a smooth recovery and a difficult one.