As a foreigner living in Thailand, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it 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...

"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," wrote a member who made the move to Thailand.

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"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," explained one expat living in Ao Nang (Krabi), Thailand.