The Southeast Asian kingdom of Thailand has one of the region’s most extensive and accessible healthcare networks. Comprising both public and private hospitals, it serves millions of locals and visitors every year. The high standard of care and relatively low cost have led to the country’s medical tourism sector booming, but naturally the way some things work there will be different from what foreign visitors may expect. Here are some helpful things to know in advance.
Local Insurance Helps A Lot
If you’re planning to live in Thailand long-term, it’s worth looking for policies marketed as Thai insurance for foreigners. That’s because, unlike most international insurers, local providers often have direct-billing arrangements with large networks of private hospitals in the country. What this means for you is that you do not have to pay upfront and make a claim for reimbursement. The insurer will pay the hospital directly for you, which can take a lot of stress out of hospital stays.
International Insurance Can Sometimes Be Better
While both Thai and international insurers tend to provide basic coverage like critical illness insurance and inpatient treatment, Thai coverage is often more limited and generally doesn’t extend outside of the country or region. If you’re somebody who plans on using Thailand as a base from which to travel frequently, it may be worth looking at global insurers. Another thing that is not often included in local packages is repatriation to your home country.
Public Hospitals Are Low-Cost, But Limited
There are more than 800 public hospitals in Thailand, overseen by the Ministry of Public Health. While you can expect costs to be modest and for hospitals to have highly trained doctors and nurses, you will also find that they can be very busy, and the range of treatments and English-language support available can be rather limited, especially in rural areas. Public hospitals in major cities tend to offer more comprehensive services and have access to more modern equipment.
Go Private For Speedier Service
Thailand’s private hospitals have turned the country into the region’s top medical tourism destination. Costs can be several times higher than at public hospitals, but often still come in lower than private hospitals in Western countries, while offering state-of-the-art treatments, short wait times, and comfortable surroundings. Their billing departments are experienced in handling claims for international insurers, but it’s important to note that uninsured individuals often need to make large deposits before treatments begin.
Over-The-Counter Options Are Extensive
Thailand’s pharmacies are able to sell antibiotics and certain types of pain relief that typically require prescriptions in other places. Visiting one is obviously quicker and cheaper than going to a hospital or clinic, so if you find yourself suddenly falling ill, they can be a convenient first place to go. You should be aware, however, that self-medicating can increase your risk of harm. Always speak to the pharmacist about your symptoms first to ensure you take an appropriate remedy.
Emergency Service Numbers
Thailand has different numbers for its emergency services. 1669 is the one to remember for medical emergencies, and it can be dialled free of charge from any phone. You can also dial 1646 for ambulances in Bangkok, and most private hospitals have their own ambulance fleet and emergency hotline. Whether you’re staying here long term or visiting on a short holiday, it’s sensible to save 1669 and the number of a nearby private hospital in your phone, just in case.
There Are Many Outpatient Services
In cities, especially, you never need to look far for specialised healthcare services like dentists, optometrists, dermatologists, physiotherapists, and fertility specialists. You’ll usually find them in malls or shopping districts, where they typically offer quick walk-in appointments and straightforward price lists. This is very convenient and saves you from the overheads associated with hospital stays, although they are less likely to be covered by your insurance, and language support may be limited.
Common Ailments and Preventative Measures
When visiting any country, it pays to know which ailments are most common there and how to avoid them. In Thailand, motorbike injuries, heat exhaustion, and gastrointestinal issues top the list among visitors. The first can be prevented by choosing other modes of transport, or wearing a helmet and obeying road safety measures if you must travel by motorbike. Visitors should also stay hydrated, and be judicious when choosing restaurants or street food stalls to eat from.
Conclusion
Thailand’s healthcare system is modern and reliable, but navigating it well requires a small amount of preparation. Buying Thai insurance for foreigners or comprehensive international cover, learning and saving the emergency numbers, taking reasonable preventative measures, and having a rudimentary understanding of what public and private hospitals provide will all help you to enjoy your stay as much as possible, even if you do fall ill or get injured.
