Booking a PET-CT in India — When You Are Abroad

You can pay by international debit or credit card, or by direct bank transfer to the centre. Ask your care coordinator which options are available and for the payment details in writing before you call with your card. Some families arrange for a local relative to pay in person and are reimbursed separately — that works too, as long as payment is confirmed before the scan date. Keep the receipt for any insurance or reimbursement claim.

Book at least five to seven working days ahead where possible. Slots at partner imaging centres can fill, particularly mid-week. If your parent's oncologist has indicated urgency, say so when you call — some slots are held for clinical priority. For staging scans ahead of a treatment start date, book as soon as the referral letter is issued. More lead time also gives you room to reschedule if your parent's travel arrangements change.

The written report — a PDF of the radiologist's findings — can be emailed to you, and you can share it with any doctor outside India. Ask for this when you book and confirm the email address is correct. Most overseas oncologists can work from the written report. If your specialist needs the raw image files, ask the imaging centre directly — availability varies, and you may need to request a CD or a secure transfer link separately.

If no family member or friend is available, a hired medical escort or patient support service can fill this role. Your CION care coordinator may be able to suggest options in your parent's area. Plan this before you book, not on the morning of the scan — last-minute arrangements are stressful for your parent and carry real risk of missing the slot. Some charitable organisations in larger cities also offer escort support for patients who need to travel alone.

Preparation instructions are given at the time of booking and must be followed carefully — if they are not, the scan usually has to be rescheduled. They typically involve a fasting period and restrictions on physical activity and certain medications in the hours before the scan. Ask for these instructions by WhatsApp or email at the time of booking so there is nothing lost in a phone conversation. Your parent's companion should also have a copy and know what to check on the day.

Call the care coordinator as early as possible if the date needs to move. Cancellations made with enough notice allow the slot to be offered to another patient. Whether any payment already made is transferable or refundable depends on the specific centre's policy — ask about this when you book so you are not caught off guard later. Rescheduling is usually straightforward with adequate notice, but availability for the new date is not guaranteed.