US Healthcare Costs Force NRI Family's Return to India
An NRI couple has ignited an online discussion after revealing their decision to move back to India, ending nearly two decades of life in the United States. The primary catalyst for their monumental life change was the soaring and unsustainable cost of healthcare in the US, which left them financially drained and emotionally exhausted.
The Financial Strain of American Medical Bills
In a candid Instagram video that has since gone viral, the couple, now settled in India with their twins, detailed their struggles. They explained that despite having health insurance, the system felt "slow, expensive and stressful." They provided crucial context for those unfamiliar with the US model, stating, "Before insurance even helps, you have to hit your yearly deductible. Every visit, every test – you pay out of pocket first."
The numbers were staggering. The family was spending a massive $14,000 annually before their insurance coverage even began. To make matters worse, the most affordable insurance plan they could find for just the two adults cost them $1,600 per month, coupled with a crippling $15,000 deductible. This financial burden did not even include coverage for their children.
From Isolation to a Support System in India
The financial pressure was compounded by a deep sense of isolation. Without the support of extended family in the US, the couple found parenting to be an increasingly lonely journey. "Even simple concerns became a financial burden," they shared, highlighting how the lack of a support network amplified their stress.
This led to their eventual decision to return to their homeland. They were in search of more affordable healthcare and the invaluable support of their community and family. While they acknowledge that "India isn’t perfect," their quality of life has dramatically improved. "Here healthcare doesn’t feel like a luxury," they expressed. "We have access to good doctors, faster care, and a support system that actually feels accessible."
A Viral Story and a Community's Response
The couple's video has resonated with millions, amassing over 1.6 million views and sparking hundreds of comments. Many users echoed their sentiments about the high cost of living and medical care in the US. One user, who also returned after 17 years, commented on the adjustments but celebrated being closer to family.
Another user expressed their own internal conflict, writing, "Why i am not able to make up my mind... we are GC holders. Every second i think wanted to move back but not able to dare with kids." This highlights the difficult choice many NRIs face. For this family, however, the move was a clear step toward a more balanced life. They concluded that returning to India gave them something priceless they didn't realize they were missing: "balance and peace of mind."
