Healthcare in Thailand for foreigners
Public versus private care, what insurance you actually need, and what treatment costs out of pocket.
The essentials
- Private hospitals in Bangkok and Chiang Mai are the practical default for expats: English-speaking, fast, and good quality.
- Foreigners are not automatically covered by the public system; employment with Thai social security is the main exception.
- Some visa categories require proof of health insurance with a minimum coverage level.
- A GP consultation at a private hospital typically costs 800–1,500 THB.
- Pharmacies dispense a wide range of medicines without a prescription, but bring documentation for controlled drugs.
The three systems
Universal Coverage (the 30-baht scheme) is for Thai nationals. Social Security covers employees who contribute through payroll, including foreign employees with a work permit. Everyone else pays privately or through insurance.
Typical private costs
Prices vary widely between a local private hospital and an international flagship like Bumrungrad or Samitivej.
| Treatment | Local private | International hospital |
|---|---|---|
| GP consultation | 500–900 THB | 1,200–2,500 THB |
| Specialist consultation | 900–1,500 THB | 2,000–4,000 THB |
| Dental cleaning | 800–1,200 THB | 2,000–3,500 THB |
| Overnight room | 2,000–4,000 THB | 6,000–15,000 THB |
| Full health screening | 5,000–9,000 THB | 12,000–30,000 THB |
Choosing insurance
Decide first whether you want inpatient-only cover (cheaper, protects against catastrophe) or comprehensive cover including outpatient visits.
Check whether the policy is Thailand-only or regional, whether it is guaranteed renewable, and how pre-existing conditions are treated.
If your visa specifies a minimum coverage figure, make sure the certificate you receive states it explicitly — immigration checks the wording, not the intent.
Emergencies
The national emergency number is 1669. Tourist Police can be reached on 1155 and will help with language.
In a serious emergency, ambulances take you to the nearest capable hospital, not necessarily your preferred one. Carry your insurance card and a note of your blood type and allergies.
Official sources
Everything above is written from these. Rules change without notice, so check the relevant one before you book, pay or travel.
This page was last checked against those sources on 1 July 2026. Spotted something out of date? and we'll re-check it.