Thailand Healthcare Guide
Everything you need to know about healthcare as an expat in Thailand.
Healthcare System Overview
Thailand operates a dual public/private healthcare system that has made the country a global medical tourism leader. The private sector attracts 3.5+ million international patients annually, capturing 90% of Asia's medical tourism market. Thailand has 66+ JCI-accredited hospitals—more than any other country in Southeast Asia. Quality at top private hospitals rivals or exceeds Western standards.
Public Healthcare
Expats cannot access the Universal Coverage Scheme (UCS)—reserved for Thai citizens. However, work permit holders can access the Social Security System through employer contributions. Social Security (Section 33): 5% of salary contribution (max 750 THB/month, ~$21). Employer matches another 5%. Coverage includes free treatment at designated hospital, hospitalization, dental up to 900 THB/year, maternity benefits. Limitations: must choose one designated hospital, public facilities can be crowded with long waits, limited English-speaking staff.
Private Healthcare
The private sector is where most expats receive care. Bumrungrad International Hospital has over 210 US board-certified physicians and treats 1.1 million patients annually, 500,000+ international. Many doctors trained at Harvard, Mayo Clinic, or Royal College of Surgeons. English-speaking medical professionals are standard at international hospitals. Major private hospitals: Bumrungrad (Bangkok), Bangkok Hospital Group (nationwide), BNH Hospital (Bangkok), Samitivej (Bangkok), Chiang Mai Ram (Chiang Mai), Bangkok Hospital Phuket.
Healthcare for Expats
Access & Eligibility
Most expats use private hospitals either paying out-of-pocket (still affordable by Western standards) or through private insurance. O-A visa holders require mandatory Thai health insurance. Work permit holders can access Social Security for basic care.
Recommended Approach
Private insurance strongly recommended for comprehensive coverage. Pay-as-you-go works for minor issues given low costs. For O-A visa, must use TGIA-approved Thai insurer. Consider: Pacific Cross, AIA Thailand, Cigna Global, BUPA/Allianz Ayudhya.
Typical Costs
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Health Insurance
Requirements
For O-A visa holders (mandatory): Inpatient coverage 400,000 THB minimum (~$11,400), Outpatient coverage 40,000 THB minimum (~$1,140). Must be from TGIA-approved Thai insurer (see longstay.tgia.org). Other visa types: Not mandatory but highly recommended.
Recommended Insurance Providers
- Pacific Cross Thailand - Very popular with expats, 75+ years in Asia. Plans from $1,500-10,000+/year depending on age. Issue age up to 75, lifetime renewability. 450+ hospital network with cashless treatment.
- AIA Thailand - Thailand's leading life insurer. Requires base life insurance attachment. 750+ partner hospitals including Bumrungrad. Premium estimates: 30s $1,200-2,500/year, 50s $2,500-5,000, 60s $4,000-8,000+.
- Cigna Global - Excellent international coverage. Close Care plan specifically designed for Thailand retirees with no maximum age. Monthly costs $100-500+ depending on coverage.
- BUPA/Allianz Ayudhya - Bupa Thailand acquired by Allianz Ayudhya in 2022. Plans with $1M to unlimited annual limits. Some plans cover pre-existing conditions after waiting period.
Medical Tourism
Thailand is a global medical tourism leader. 3.5+ million international patients annually. Bumrungrad alone treats 500,000+ international patients per year. Many doctors US/UK trained with international certifications. Significant cost savings (50-80%) on major procedures. Popular for: cosmetic surgery, dental work, orthopedics, cardiac procedures, gender reassignment, fertility treatments.
Popular Procedures
Recommended PartnerDon't skip health insurance
Cost estimates are great for budgeting, but real coverage protects you when something goes wrong.
A portion of affiliate revenue is donated to UNHCR
Compare Healthcare Systems
See how Thailand's healthcare compares to other countries.