15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Thailand
Last updated on Sep 08, 2023
Summary: The quality of medical care in Thailand is generally considered to be good, with many hospitals offering modern facilities and highly trained medical staff. However, the quality of care may not be as high as in the United States. Emergency services in Thailand are generally reliable and efficient, with ambulances available in most cities. To call for an ambulance, you can dial 1669 or contact your local hospital.
How are healthcare services Thailand?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Thailand, they replied:
"Compare hospital costs for same procedure. Use hospital web sites to review medical bios of their doctors. Consultations are inexpensive and a good way to evaluate doctors. Use private hospitals for faster service and less waiting times. Check availability of 3rd party billing for in-patient procedures," said one expat.
"Healthcare services in Thailand are generally of a high quality and are widely available. The public healthcare system is comprehensive and covers a wide range of services, including primary care, specialist care, and hospital care. The quality of public healthcare is generally good, with modern facilities and well-trained staff. Foreign residents in Thailand have access to the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay a fee for some services. Expats in Thailand often use the public healthcare system, as it is generally more affordable than private healthcare. However, some expats may opt for private healthcare, as it can provide more personalized care and shorter waiting times," remarked one expat in Thailand.
"Unfortunately, there is very limited quality health care options in this immediate area. There are a few clinics but with very bad reputations. There is one reputable hospital in Krabi town (about a half hour away) called Krabi Nakharin International Hospital. On the other hand, Bangkok as some of the 10 ten hospitals in the world. Bumrungrad International being the preferred as they actually have a wing with English speaking doctors," remarked one expat living in Ao Nang (Krabi).
What are medical services in Thailand like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Thailand, they replied:
"Medical services in Thailand are generally of a high quality, with many hospitals and clinics offering a wide range of treatments and services. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with both public and private hospitals and clinics providing a range of services from general medical care to specialist treatments. Many of the larger hospitals are equipped with modern medical technology and offer a range of services from general check-ups to complex surgeries. In addition, there are a number of private clinics and medical centers that offer a variety of treatments and services. The cost of medical care in Thailand is generally lower than in many other countries, making it an attractive option for those seeking medical treatment," commented one expat who moved to Thailand.
"As noted, I do not have health insurance because the cost of walk-in care is unbelievably cheap. Additionally, most doctors, particularly at hospitals, are western-trained, so the level of service is just as good as the States," said one expat.
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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Thailand?
"We have private health insurance and I would not change it for the world. I have the option of using any PRIVATE HOSPITAL OR DOCTOR I wish, anywhere in the world. The way it works, if I have something major happen, I contact my insurance company and they then make arrangements to pay the hospital of my choice directly. My policy also has a FREE VIP second opinion for any major medical diagnosis. For me this is the peace of mind that I need. I can have my case reviewed by an American doctor to confirm what is my best option. I have a $1000 deductible and it covers me anywhere in the world including the United States at a cost of about 60% less than what I was paying when living in the US. If anyone is interested in more details, please feel free to reach out to me," wrote one expat.
"Healthcare and health insurance in Thailand can be expensive, depending on the type of care and coverage needed. Generally, public healthcare is more affordable than private healthcare, but the quality of care may not be as high. Private health insurance can be expensive, but it can provide more comprehensive coverage and access to higher quality care. Additionally, some employers may offer health insurance plans to their employees, which can help to reduce the cost of coverage," commented one expat who moved to Thailand.
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What are emergency services like in Thailand?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Thailand wrote:
"Dentist - 5 minutes away - private care (wonderful woman dentist) - YES all services - Dentist was very good and painless - Private woman owned business in Chiang Mai (down from the Holiday Inn)," wrote an expat living in Chiang Mai.
"The quality and reputation in this immediate area is not good. But the best nearby hospital is about a half hour drive located in Krabi Town. Krabi Nakharin International Hospital has English speaking doctors and where you would want to go. 911 is the standard emergency number but 1669 is specifically for an ambulance," said an expat in Ao Nang (Krabi).
"There are many private hospitals close in Bangkok; I use four ranging in distances of about 1 to 10 kilometers. Bangkok Medical Center; Bumrungrad; Mayo; and Vibhavadi. ER services so far have been very good and inexpensive. Traffic is a problem, so I have taken a taxi when possible to save time. Hospital care has been professional and more user friendly than US. I always use private, if available, for faster service," commented one expat living in Bangkok, Thailand.
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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"For major events, Bangkok offers some of the best hospitals in the world. It is important to have international health insurance geared toward expats so you can use these facilities. Major events are still quite expensive," wrote an expat living in Ao Nang (Krabi).
"Thailand is renowned for having some of the best medical care in the world, with many of the major cities having a great selection of medical specialists. Bangkok is the country's largest city and is home to some of the most advanced medical facilities, including top-notch private hospitals, some with international accreditation. Chiang Mai, in the north of Thailand, has also become an established medical hub, boasting a range of internationally certified physicians and an array of treatments and surgeries. Phuket, in the south of the country, is known for specializing in cosmetic and plastic surgery, as well as a range of general practitioners and specialists. Other cities and areas with a good selection of specialists include Pattaya, Hua Hin, and Hat Yai," said an expat in Thailand.
Are common prescription medications available in Thailand?
"Meds available locally at drug store - over the counter pain meds... No - not expensive..," said an expat in Chiang Mai.
"So far all the meds I have needed are available locally; if not in drug stores then at the hospitals. Some are available without prescription while others are not; not sure why? Non generics are just as expensive as in the US," commented one expat living in Bangkok, Thailand.
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Thailand. Many pharmacies in Thailand carry a wide variety of medications, including those that require a prescription. However, it is important to note that some medications may not be available in Thailand, so it is best to check with a local pharmacist before travelling. Additionally, some medications may require a doctor's prescription in order to be purchased in Thailand," wrote one expat.
"Common prescription medicines in the US are not considered prescriptions in Thailand. When you go to a pharmacy, there is usually a nurse on site who can make recommendations for you. Prices on most items are very affordable. Of course, certain controlled substances will require a prescription," commented one expat who moved to Ao Nang (Krabi).
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Thailand?
"Closest hospital is about 3 miles, do not have current info on it. There are 2 private hospitals that are like staying in a 5 star hotel not far away," said an expat in Bangkok.
"Medical facilities and medical care in Thailand are generally of a high quality. Medical staff in Thailand are highly trained and experienced, offering services that are both effective and compassionate. Many of the hospitals in the country are highly esteemed and equipped with modern medical technology and facilities. In addition, many of Thailand's medical professionals speak excellent English, making the experience more accessible to expats and foreign visitors," commented one expat living in Thailand.
As a foreigner living in Thailand, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"It is now a law in Thailand that all expats have health insurance. This is a fairly new requirement that many people are not aware of. If you are legally working in Thailand you will be paying 5% of your income to the social security system and this will allow you to use the government hospitals. I personally do not recommend this route as the public hospital options are nothing like the standards in the US. They include long waits, over packed hospitals, questionable sanitary conditions, family or friends will need to help you with cleaning, bathing, and food, shared rooms with up 50 people. Most expats will purchase an international health insurance policy that will cover them at any PRIVATE hospital. There are 4 times the amount of beds in the private hospitals and the service, standards, and equipment will be up to the standards most expats would expect," wrote an expat living in Ao Nang (Krabi).
"Yes, foreigners living in Thailand have access to public healthcare. The quality of care is generally good, with many hospitals and clinics offering a wide range of services. The cost of care is also relatively low compared to other countries, making it an attractive option for those on a budget. However, it is important to note that some services may not be covered by public healthcare, so it is important to check with your local healthcare provider before seeking treatment," said an expat in Thailand.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Thailand if they have access to public healthcare in Thailand. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"None so far- I am free of COVID but the system is well in place to deal with the situation," commented one expat living in Chiang Mai, Thailand.
"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Thailand. The government has implemented strict measures to contain the spread of the virus, including the closure of many healthcare facilities and the suspension of non-essential services. As a result, access to healthcare has been limited, with many people having to wait longer than usual for appointments and treatments. The government has also implemented a universal health insurance scheme to help cover the costs of medical care for those who are unable to afford it. Despite the challenges, the healthcare system in Thailand has been able to respond quickly and effectively to the pandemic, providing timely and quality care to those in need," wrote one expat.
What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Thailand?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in Thailand about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:
"Do your research ahead of time and keep yourself well informed about any necessary pre- and post-natal care, as well as the available options for having a baby in Thailand. It is important to be aware of any cultural differences when it comes to childbirth and maternity care. Make sure you visit a good hospital and have a knowledgeable doctor who can give you the best advice and support. Organizations such as the International Patient Liaison Programme, a Bangkok-based support group for expat parents, can help with navigating the healthcare system. Be sure to take advantage of any maternity leave your employer offers and be prepared for unexpected outcomes. Insurance is also something you should consider, as babies can get sick, and you need to be covered financially if anything happens. Above all, enjoy this exciting time of bringing a new life into the world and celebrate the miracle of childbirth with your family, friends and the people around you," explained one expat living in Thailand.
Are healthcare services good in Thailand?
We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Thailand. They wrote:
"We purchased medical insurance, called Thai Life, we have hospital stays only, as we are both healthy don't take any kind of meds. And we feel that it is very cheap for doctor visit, teeth cleaning, etc. We can pay out of pocket," wrote a person living in Nonthaburi.
"Thailand's healthcare system offers a wide range of medical services, from general clinical care to specialized surgeries and treatments. Hospitals in Thailand are well-equipped and staffed by highly-trained doctors, nurses and technicians. The vast majority of them offer telemedicine, lab tests and other services typically seen in international hospitals. In addition to traditional hospital-based services, Thailand also has a well-developed network of public health centers, health promotion centers and public pharmacies. These public and private centers provide a range of healthcare services including primary care and preventive care. Furthermore, Thailand has multiple health insurance providers, offering coverage to those needing financial assistance with healthcare costs," explained one expat living in Thailand.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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