Chennai, Sep 17 (IANS): Healthcare major Apollo Hospital plans to add over 2,500 beds over the next three years, out of which around 1,300 will be in tier II and III towns, said company officials.

"Apollo Hospitals will be adding over 2,500 beds over the next three years while simultaneously strengthening its prowess as a global healthcare destination," Prathap C. Reddy, chairman of Apollo Hospitals Group, said at a function to commemorate the group's 30th anniversary here Tuesday.

Speaking to reporters, Suneeta Reddy, the joint managing director, said the group is planning to add 1,300 beds in tier II and III towns as they offer better return on investments and growth opportunities.

She added that nearly 30 percent of the group's revenue and profits would come from tier II and III towns over the next three to five years.

According to Suneeta Reddy, the break-even point of hospitals in these towns are shorter.

Not agreeing with the view that the group is slow in adding beds, she said a hospital's growth should be looked at the way in which the existing assets are being used.

As a part of 30th anniversary programme, the group will be organising 30,000 health screenings across Tamil Nadu.