International-standard medical care on paradise island - hospitals, clinics, and wellness services for expats
Koh Samui offers surprisingly good healthcare for an island location, anchored by Bangkok Hospital Samui which provides international-standard care with English-speaking doctors and modern facilities. While the island can handle most medical needs including emergencies, serious cases may require air ambulance to Bangkok or Singapore. The expat community is well-served with private clinics, dental practices, and wellness centers.
Healthcare costs are reasonable by Western standards but higher than mainland Thailand. Most expats use international health insurance which is widely accepted. The island also has several pharmacies stocked with international medications, though specialty drugs may need to be ordered from Bangkok.
Quick Healthcare Facts:
90/2 Moo 2, North Chaweng
077-429-500
The island's premier international hospital and part of the Bangkok Dusit Medical Services network. Offers comprehensive medical care with English-speaking doctors, modern equipment, and 24/7 emergency services. Most expats use this facility as their primary hospital.
Moo 4, Taling Ngam
077-423-290
Smaller private hospital offering general medical care and emergency services. Less expensive than Bangkok Hospital but more limited facilities. Good for routine care and minor emergencies.
9/9 Moo 1, North Chaweng
077-960-100
Mid-size private hospital offering general medical services with English-speaking staff. Good alternative to Bangkok Hospital for routine care at lower costs. Limited specialist availability.
Chaweng Beach Road
General Practice & Travel Medicine
Popular expatriate clinic with experienced Western and Thai doctors. Known for thorough consultations and travel medicine services.
Multiple locations
Comprehensive Dental Care
Modern dental clinic chain with international dentists. Offers everything from cleanings to implants and cosmetic dentistry at reasonable prices.
Bophut
Ophthalmology
Specialized eye care clinic with optometrists and ophthalmologists. Eye exams, glasses, contacts, and minor procedures.
Chaweng
Dermatology & Aesthetics
Dermatology clinic specializing in tropical skin conditions, laser treatments, and medical aesthetics.
Koh Samui has numerous pharmacies throughout the island stocking both local and imported medications. Most common prescriptions are available without doctor consultation, though antibiotics and controlled substances require prescriptions.
Tip: Bring 3-6 months supply of specialty medications from home. While most common drugs are available, specific brands may not be stocked. Pharmacies can order from Bangkok within 2-3 days.
Comprehensive Coverage
Full international coverage including medical evacuation, worldwide treatment, and direct billing at Bangkok Hospital Samui. Essential for serious medical needs.
Local Coverage
Thai insurance companies offering plans specifically for expats. Lower cost but coverage usually limited to Thailand and sometimes only specific hospitals.
Budget Option
Extended travel insurance for digital nomads and short-term expats. Covers emergencies but not routine care. Good for young, healthy individuals.
No Insurance
Some expats choose to pay directly for medical care and maintain emergency funds. Only recommended for young, healthy individuals with significant savings.
For serious medical emergencies requiring specialized care, air ambulance services can evacuate patients to Bangkok or Singapore hospitals within hours.
Important: Most international health insurance covers medical evacuation. This is essential coverage for island living.
Island healthcare is good for routine care but serious conditions may require evacuation to Bangkok or Singapore. Medical evacuation costs ฿200,000-500,000. Insurance that covers evacuation is essential.
While common medications are available, bring 3-6 months supply of any specialty drugs. Pharmacies can order from Bangkok within 2-3 days but may not carry your exact brand.
Register at Bangkok Hospital Samui before you need care. Set up direct billing with your insurance and establish relationship with primary care doctor for continuity.
Samui has world-class dental care at 60-70% lower cost than Western countries. Many expats come specifically for dental tourism. Quality is high at major clinics.
Dengue fever risk exists (use mosquito repellent). Sun protection essential - skin cancer rates high. Stay hydrated. Gastro issues common at first - drink bottled water initially.
Apps like Doctor Raksa and Bangkok Hospital app offer video consultations with doctors. Great for minor issues, prescription refills, and avoiding clinic visits.