In a recent viral video, an NRI couple has sparked a widespread conversation by sharing their reasons for relocating from the United States back to India after living in America for 17 years. The couple, now settled in India with their twins, revealed that the overwhelming healthcare expenses in the U.S. had placed them under significant financial and emotional strain.
The woman in the video explained that becoming a mother was a turning point for her. She only had six weeks of maternity leave after having twins to recover, learn how to care for two newborns, and adjust to a completely new life. She was expected to return to normal life while still healing, learning, and exhausted.
In the Instagram video, the couple elaborated that despite having health insurance, accessing doctors and essential medical services felt "slow, expensive, and stressful". They highlighted the complexities of the U.S. healthcare system, where they had to meet a $14,000 yearly deductible before their insurance could even be utilized. The couple also mentioned that the premiums kept rising, and the lowest quote they got for the two adults alone was $1,600 a month, with a $15,000 deductible. This did not even include their twins.
"Even for the smallest concern, it felt like a whole saga. Calls, co-pays, approvals, just to get basic healthcare," the woman stated. She further added that appointments for their children often took weeks to schedule, the visits felt rushed, and the mounting bills only amplified their stress. As parents, healthcare became a constant battle. The couple felt increasingly isolated without family support in the U.S..
In contrast, the couple finds healthcare more accessible and affordable in India. They emphasized that in India, they have quicker access to doctors, easier appointments, and a reachable support system. “India isn't perfect,” the couple admitted, “but here healthcare doesn't feel like a luxury".
The couple clarifies that their move to India was not an escape but a conscious decision to pursue a life where healthcare is not a financial burden and motherhood isn't a solitary struggle. Returning to India has given them something they didn't realize they were missing: balance and peace of mind.
The viral video has garnered over 1.6 million views and numerous comments, with many users sharing similar experiences and perspectives on the high costs of medical care in the U.S.. Some users also pointed out the challenges of readjusting to life in India. One user who had also lived in the U.S. for 17 years and returned to India three months ago commented that while there is an adjustment period, being closer to family and enjoying time with them makes it worthwhile.
The couple's story reflects a growing sentiment among some NRIs who are re-evaluating their lives abroad and considering returning to their roots in search of a better quality of life, stronger family support, and affordable healthcare.
