15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare 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," mentioned one expat in Ao Nang (Krabi).

"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," said one expat.

"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," remarked one expat in Chiang Mai.

"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.

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

"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)," said one expat living in Chiang Mai.

"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," remarked one expat living in Thailand.

"I have not needed to travel outside of Bangkok to see specialists or for serious health issues," said one expat living in Bangkok.

"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," mentioned one expat in Ao Nang (Krabi).

"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," said an expat in Thailand.

"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 living in Ao Nang (Krabi), Thailand.

"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," wrote one expat.

"Meds available locally at drug store - over the counter pain meds... No - not expensive..," commented one expat who moved to Chiang Mai.

"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 one expat.

"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," remarked one expat in Thailand.

"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," said one expat.

"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," remarked one expat in Thailand.

"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.