Indian healthcare professionals are increasingly seeking work experience abroad, according to a new study. About 10,000 have emigrated in the last five years.

Demand is strongest from Gulf countries, mainly the UAE and Saudi Arabia, as well as the UK and Ireland. India has 5.74 million medical professionals, and its doctor-to-patient ratio meets World Health Organization standards, the study said.

Data from career platform TrueProfile.io shows 1.5 million members worldwide. Nurses form 46.24 per cent of those keen to move abroad, followed by doctors at 22.92 per cent. Professionals aged 25 to 35 are the most eager, and nearly 70 per cent of those interested are women.

Experts say better pay, structured work environments and skill development draw Indian talent overseas. The trend also enables knowledge transfer when professionals return.

The outflow raises questions about retaining talent at home. Policymakers say improving working conditions and pay parity in Indian hospitals is key to keeping skilled staff.