What are the features of medical tourism in Thailand?

Introduction

In this article, we will discuss various aspects of medicine in Thailand, including popular clinics and medical specialties, as well as examine pharmacy chains, pharmaceutical products, features of health insurance, and details of medical tourism.

Commercial healthcare system

The healthcare system in Thailand is primarily based on a commercial principle. It is worth noting that this situation is also observed in other Southeast Asian countries, where medical services are paid for both local citizens and foreign patients.

However, Thailand has one significant feature:

• Prices for services at large medical facilities are often markedly higher than market prices.
• This concerns not only the medical procedures themselves but also the work of the support staff, including administrators and assistants.

All these factors further increase the cost of services in private clinics.

Comparison of treatment prices

A comparison of treatment prices between private and public medical institutions shows enormous differences. In private clinics, patients benefit from:

• High level of service,
• The latest equipment,
• Quality medicinal products.

Nevertheless, the healthcare system in other countries in the region is largely similar to that of Thailand.

Health insurance for foreigners

It's important for foreign patients to remember that without medical insurance, services in Thailand can be unexpectedly expensive. This is especially relevant considering that the country has an unfavorable position regarding the number of road traffic accidents, mainly related to motorcycle accidents. Undoubtedly, Thailand has well-developed medical care for injuries.

• Successful operations,
• Prosthetics,
• Treatment of fractures,
• A variety of programs for rehabilitation.

However, it should be noted that someInsurance policies may not cover.Expenses for special metal structures, so it's worth studying the terms of your insurance in advance.

Individual medical programs

The medical service programs provided by leading private hospitals are tailored to the individual needs of their clients and include the necessary procedures and services. These clinics also assist foreigners in obtaining medical visas, which greatly simplifies their stay in the country and allows them to extend their visa for the period of rehabilitation. It is important to note that it is private institutions that play a major role in the development of medical tourism, as public hospitals are hardly involved in this aspect.

Diversity of medical institutions

Thailand has a wide variety of medical facilities. Typically, there is one public hospital in each urban district, while the number of private clinics can vary depending on the demand for medical services in that area.

Thus, the variety of medical institutions and the programs offered significantly enhance the accessibility and quality of healthcare for everyone who decides to seek treatment in this country.

Private medical practice in Thailand

In Thailand, private medical institutions are mainly represented by large medical holdings, where the cost of treatment is much higher than in public hospitals. For example, a visit to a pediatrician at a public clinic will cost around 200 baht (about 6 US dollars), while the same service at a private clinic can cost as much as 1200 baht (approximately 36 US dollars).

Specialized clinics

In addition to large institutions, the country also has small specialized clinics that focus on treating children and injuries. Among the most well-known medical facilities in Phuket, one of the most popular resorts in the country, several public hospitals can be highlighted, such as:

• Vachira Phuket Hospital
• Patong Hospital
• Thalang Hospital
• Chalong Hospital

In particular, Vachira Hospital is the largest hospital, and it is often chosen by patients who do not have health insurance or cannot turn to acquaintances to find a closer or more specialized medical facility.

Large government institutions

Another important public hospital in Phuket is Patong Hospital, which serves tourists in the famous resort area of Patong. The other hospitals on the island tend to be smaller and more focused on serving the local population living in less touristy areas.

Private medical group contributions

Currently, private medical institutions in Phuket are part of the Bangkok Dibuk Hospital medical group, which has established and united numerous clinics across the country in recent years. The largest of these include:

• Bangkok Phuket Hospital
• Siriroj International Hospital
• Dibuk Hospital

These facilities are equipped with modern medical equipment and highly qualified specialists in various fields of medicine. Despite the high cost of services at these hospitals, they provide excellent quality of treatment and service for patients. Here, tourists from different countries, including Russian speakers, can take advantage of translation services and access a wide range of necessary medical services.

An alternative to large hospitals

As an alternative to large public and private medical institutions, Mission Hospital Phuket can be mentioned. This is a large private hospital that successfully serves both local residents and foreign patients. The prices for services at Mission Hospital are significantly lower than those at major private clinics.

Popular medical programs

When it comes to popular medical programs, Thai cosmetology and aesthetic medicine have international recognition. People from all over the world come to Thailand for these services, as there is a successful combination of high professionalism and affordable prices (much lower than in South Korea, which is a global leader in this field).

Medical tourism in Thailand

In some medical institutions in Thailand, the number of foreign patients seeking medical assistance can reach up to 40%. The country is known for various alternative therapeutic methods, including the use of herbal infusions, acupuncture, and massage, which makes traditional medicine quite popular. Traditional treatment methods are often viewed with more trust than standard medical protocols, contributing to the increasing flow of foreign citizens choosing Thailand for their medical care.

Available medications

Thailand has a huge range of medicines available in local pharmacies. Here you can find drugs from both international pharmaceutical companies and local analogs with impressive efficacy. In addition, Thai medicines often have more affordable prices compared to foreign medicines, the cost of which increases significantly due to high import duties. Pharmacies also offer traditional herbal mixtures and folk remedies, whose quality is verified by scientific institutions and actively used in therapeutic activities.

Mandatory health insurance

Since the fall of 2019, a requirement for medical insurance has been introduced for foreign citizens obtaining a residence permit for one year or more. This rule is intended to ensure coverage of medical service expenses, as most foreigners living in the country for an extended period eventually seek medical assistance.

Types of health insurance

It is worth noting that health insurance has different conditions depending on the types of visits. There are programs that cover both outpatient and inpatient visits to doctors. Russian insurance companies offer a variety of policies for trips abroad, many of which cover both types of visits. However, it is important to point out that even annual policies (which cost between $150 and $1000) often only apply to short-term trips not exceeding 90 days. The cost of insurance is determined by the specific company, the level of risks, and the amount of coverage.

The popularity of aesthetic medicine

It should be emphasized that medical tourism in Thailand is primarily associated with programs in aesthetic medicine, surgery, and rehabilitation after operations. The concept of rehabilitation resorts was implemented in 2019 and received further development after the country reopened to tourists in the context of the coronavirus pandemic. This highlights Thailand's significance as a global hub for modern medical solutions and outstanding treatment methods that attract patients from all corners of the globe.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I want to emphasize that the healthcare system in Thailand, like in most Southeast Asian countries, is based on commercial principles, yet it offers a significant variety of services for both locals and foreigners.

Despite the high prices in private medical facilities, you can get top-notch services here:qualified specialists,modern equipmentandcare for patientsmake the treatment process as comfortable as possible.

The importance of health insurance

Nevertheless, it is especially important for foreign citizens to understand the details of health insurance. Given the high risk of accidents, particularly those involving motor vehicles, having proper insurance can significantly save money and reduce stress in case medical assistance is needed.

I strongly recommend familiarizing yourself with the terms of the insurance policies in advance to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

Quality of medical services

It is also worth noting that those seeking quality healthcare can expect a wide range of specialized clinics and high-class hospitals that have experience working with international patients. This creates a unique opportunity to receive medical services that, in some cases, may even bebetterthan in other countries.

Medical tourism

Finally, it is worth mentioning the growing popularity of Thailand as a destination for medical tourism, especially in the field of cosmetology and aesthetic medicine. Low prices, combined with a high level of service, make this country attractive for those seeking quality treatment at affordable rates.

Recommendations

• Consult with specialists.
• Choose a suitable hospital.
• Take all the necessary steps for comfortable and safe treatment.

Health is the most valuable thing we have, and it is worth paying attention to every detail in the process.