Healthcare in Thailand: What Expats Really Need to Know (and How We Can Help)”

Selim Shlomi Benbasat
Jul 13
3 min read

Updated: Jul 15

🕒 Average read time: 4–5 minutes

Let’s be real — one of the biggest worries when moving abroad isn’t the beach or the language barrier… it’s what happens if you (or your kid, or your tooth) suddenly needs care.

Here’s the good news: Thailand’s private healthcare system is world-class, surprisingly affordable, and designed to work — especially for expats who know where to look.

Whether you’re planning your big move or already living here and figuring it out as you go, here’s how to navigate the system — with our help.

🏥 Private Hospitals: Fast, Friendly, and Fluent in English

Thailand has an excellent private hospital system, especially in cities like Bangkok, Hua Hin., Chiang Mai, Phuket, Koh Samui, and Pattaya,

✅ What to Expect:

Short wait times
English-speaking doctors and nurses
Modern equipment and international standards
Online appointment booking

💸 Typical Costs:

GP visit: THB 800–1,500
Specialist: THB 1,500–3,000
Minor procedures or blood work: THB 2,000–8,000

🏥 Top Choices for Expats:

Bumrungrad International (Bangkok)
Bangkok Hospital Group (nationwide)
Samitivej (Bangkok, Chonburi)
BDMS Wellness Clinic

🦷 Dental Clinics: Clean, Modern, and Cost-Effective

From routine cleanings to implants and orthodontics, Thailand’s dental care is one of the best-kept secrets among expats.

Treating your teeth in the land of Smiles

✅ Why People Come Here:

Prices are 30–70% lower than in the West
High-quality work with advanced technology
No need to wait weeks for an appointment

💸 Typical Costs:

Cleaning: THB 800–1,200
Filling: THB 1,000–2,500
Whitening: THB 5,000–9,000
Invisalign or braces: THB 50,000–120,000

🦷 Many expats combine dental visits with holiday trips — and it’s totally worth it.

🛡️ Health Insurance: Don’t Wait Until It’s Urgent

Even though costs are reasonable, private insurance is a must — especially if you need hospitalization, long-term medication, or just peace of mind.

✅ Options We Recommend:

Thai-based expat policies (like Luma, Pacific Cross, Cigna Global)
International coverage (Allianz, Bupa, AXA, SafetyWing)
Travel or short-stay plans (for visitors or digital nomads)

💸 Average Premiums:

Individual expats: THB 20,000–90,000/year
Families: THB 40,000–150,000/year (depending on age and coverage)

We help you compare, choose the right provider and plan, and make sure it meets any visa requirements.

🚑 Emergency Assistance: When You Need Help, Fast

Let’s be blunt: things happen. And when they do, you don’t want to fumble through Google Translate while finding the nearest ER.

That’s why we help our clients:

Register with local clinics/hospitals
Know what to do in a medical emergency
Get English-speaking ambulance contacts
Understand your insurance’s emergency coverage

🚑 Emergency Assistance: Be Ready

✅ Emergency Tips for Expats:

Save English-speaking ambulance/hospital contacts
Use hospitals with international desks
Register your insurance for direct billing

📞 Emergency Numbers in Thailand:

🚑 Ambulance (general): 1669
🚓 Tourist Police (English): 1155
🔥 Fire: 199

📝 Pro Tip: Some private hospitals offer 24/7 emergency hotlines with English-speaking operators. Make sure to learn all the necessary numbers one you settle in a place.