Thailand is renowned for world-class medical care at affordable prices, making it a top destination for medical tourism and long-term expat residence. This guide covers everything you need to navigate the Thai healthcare system confidently.
Healthcare System Overview
Thailand operates a two-tier healthcare system:
Public Hospitals: - Government-run facilities
Private Hospitals: - International standards (many JCI accredited)
Top International Hospitals in Bangkok
**Bumrungrad International Hospital** - JCI accredited since 2002 - 580 beds, 1,200+ physicians - 70+ specialties - Translator services in 20+ languages - International patient services department - Location: Sukhumvit Soi 3 - Website: bumrungrad.com
**Bangkok Hospital** - Largest private hospital network in Thailand - JCI accredited - Comprehensive international services - Multiple Bangkok locations - Strong cardiac and oncology departments - Location: Soi Soonvijai 7 - Website: bangkokhospital.com
**Samitivej Hospital** - Excellent pediatrics and maternity care - Japanese and international patient focus - Four Bangkok locations - Children's Hospital attached - Location: Sukhumvit 49 - Website: samitivejhospitals.com
**BNH Hospital** - Oldest private hospital in Bangkok - Strong reputation for orthopedics - Expatriate-focused services - Location: Silom - Website: bnhhospital.com
**Vejthani Hospital** - JCI accredited - Arabic and Middle Eastern patient focus - Comprehensive oncology center - Location: Lat Phrao - Website: vejthani.com
Costs Without Insurance
Private hospital costs (approximate):
Consultations: - GP consultation: 800-1,500 THB
Common Procedures: - Blood test panel: 1,500-4,000 THB
Hospital Stays: - Standard room: 4,000-8,000 THB/night
Health Insurance Options
Local Thai Insurance: - AIA Thailand
Learn more about local Thai insurance providers offering expat-friendly policies.
International Insurance: - BUPA Global
Explore international health insurance options for comprehensive coverage.
Mandatory Insurance for O-A Visa: - Minimum inpatient coverage: 400,000 THB
Pro tip: Many expats use a hybrid approach: local Thai insurance for routine care and a high-deductible international policy for catastrophic coverage and evacuation.
Finding English-Speaking Doctors
Hospital International Departments: Most private hospitals have dedicated international patient departments with:
Online Platforms: - Hospital websites with doctor profiles
Telemedicine Options: - Doctor Anywhere (app-based)
Pharmacies and Medications
Pharmacy Types: - Hospital pharmacies (most comprehensive)
Medication Notes: - Many medications available over-the-counter that require prescriptions elsewhere
Emergency Procedures
Emergency Numbers: - General Emergency: 1669
Emergency Tips: - Keep hospital emergency numbers saved in your phone
Dental Care
Thailand is famous for affordable, high-quality dental care:
Recommended Dental Clinics: - Bangkok International Dental Center (BIDC)
Find trusted dental clinics in Bangkok offering international-standard care.
Common Prices: - Consultation: 300-800 THB
Health Checkup Packages
Annual health checkups are affordable and thorough:
Basic Package (3,000-6,000 THB): - Physical examination
Comprehensive Package (8,000-20,000 THB): - All basic tests plus
Executive Package (20,000-50,000 THB): - Full body scan
Pro tip: Book health checkups directly with hospitals for best rates. Many offer promotions throughout the year, especially in January and during anniversary months.
Pro tip: If you have a complex medical history, bring all your records translated to English. Thai doctors appreciate thorough documentation and it ensures continuity of care.