Thailand Health Insurance for Expats

International Health Insurance for Expats in Thailand

Many international health insurance plans are available to expats and foreigners in Thailand. If you are moving to or visiting Thailand, you’ll want to know the ins and outs of Thailand’s healthcare system and whether it is worth securing a Thailand health insurance plan.

Wondering how much health insurance is in Thailand? Check out our Cost of International Health Insurance Report for 2023 for premium trends, or click below for an instant, obligation-free quote!

Recommended International Health Insurance Plans for Expatriates Living in Thailand

International Health Insurance Options in Thailand

You can purchase private health insurance in Thailand from an insurance broker or directly from insurers. These companies’ plans differ from each other in terms of coverage, claim limits, and other details.

Some categories of visa holders in Thailand will be required to have private health insurance, such as retirees on non-immigrant OA and non-immigration O-X visas. These are retirement visas for expats aged 50 or older, and health insurance is mandatory for both types of visas.

Check the latest health insurance requirements from your local Thai embassy or consulate, and look for a plan that meets (or exceeds) those requirements.

Not required to secure private health insurance under your visa category?

It may still be worth doing so anyways, as you will get the peace of mind that comes from knowing that whatever happens, you’re covered. It will enable you to access the best hospitals in Thailand without worrying about sky-high medical bills and paying out of pocket.

Local Thailand Insurance Companies

Local insurance companies are an option for expats in Thailand, with advertisements regularly being seen around popular tourist destinations. This insurance is sold by local Thai companies.

While this may seem like a good option for expats, there are pros and cons.

• Advantages: local insurance is typically less expensive and more accessible than an international insurance company. Visiting a local hospital with local insurance generally makes for smooth billing.
• Disadvantages: local insurance often comes with many different exclusions in their plans. They have claim limits and less coverage, and your policy may be written in Thai, which can be frustrating if you are not fluent.

At Pacific Prime, we help you choose an excellent health insurance plan for your unique needs. Reach out to us through our contact form.

Best International Health Insurance Plans in Thailand

The best international health insurance plans for expats in Thailand will be customizable with excellent global coverage that ensures you will be protected no matter where you go. Pacific Prime is partnered with various insurers in Thailand, as listed here:

• Cigna
• Pacific Cross
• AXA
• AIA
• Allianz
• April International
• IMG
• Generali
• LMG
• Bupa Global

Pacific Prime works with each of these insurance companies to help expats find the best plan to fit their needs and budget. The cost of plans will depend on factors such as your age, the size of the geographical area of coverage, your specific coverage benefits, and whether you want a deductible.

How Healthcare in Thailand Works

The Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) oversees healthcare in Thailand, along with several other non-ministerial government agencies. The quality of healthcare is good, especially in Bangkok and other large cities. However, the quality may deteriorate considerably in rural areas.

It’s also important to point out that Thailand doesn’t have a general practitioner (GP) system like some other countries, and patients can directly make appointments with doctors or specialists.

Private international insurance plans in Thailand can provide more comfort and care than public insurance, as you will have access to private hospitals and a broader range of coverage.

Public hospitals in Thailand

Thailand has a network of over 1,000 public hospitals. There is a social security scheme for the employed, including expats legally working in the country, which is funded by monthly salary deductions and entitles users to subsidized public healthcare. Users are assigned to a particular hospital.

Note: Uninsured individuals can still access public healthcare but must pay the full bill, which is lower than private care. Public hospitals offer good care but can be crowded, with long wait times.

Non-Thai speakers may face communication challenges, as English isn't widely spoken and a 'dual-pricing system' may charge foreigners more than locals for the same treatment.

Private hospitals in Thailand

These hospitals have state-of-the-art facilities and comfortable amenities for patients, particularly the top-tier ones like Bumrungrad International Hospital, Bangkok Hospital, and Samitivej Hospital.

These hospitals attract scores of medical tourists each year. They are generally seen as providing more value for money than hospitals of comparable standards in Western countries.

Despite these private hospitals offering value for money, treatment costs can still add up and be quite heavy on the pocket. As such, it’s recommended to secure private health insurance.

If going down this route, expats can opt for local insurers or international insurers and tailor their plans to cover their needs. This includes outpatient and inpatient cover, along with riders like dental, vision, and maternity cover.

Comparing Public and International Health Insurance Options in Thailand

Expats who don’t qualify for public health insurance will need to purchase private health insurance. And even if you do qualify for public health insurance, you can choose to supplement with private insurance for additional coverage and peace of mind.

Public International Insurance in Thailand

Public healthcare, funded by government organizations, often has longer wait times with overcrowded public hospitals. Private healthcare, provided by separate companies, offers higher-quality care with access to private hospitals with more space and multilingual staff.

Public coverage includes inpatient and outpatient care, rehabilitation, and high-cost medical treatment.

Private International Insurance in Thailand

Private international health insurance will help expats in Thailand by offering them access to higher-quality care and facilities, along with providing them extra coverage and protection for medical needs that public healthcare may not be able to offer.

Thailand International Insurance: Plans and Coverage

Expats have various international insurance companies to choose from for coverage in Thailand, such as Cigna, Pacific Cross, AXA, and more. We will discuss their plans and coverage in greater detail here.

Recommended International Health Insurance Plans for Expatriates Living in Thailand

Cigna International Health Insurance Plans for Expats in Thailand

Cigna offers several insurance plans that give access to healthcare to expats and non-residents in Thailand. With 24/7 access to a customer care team and reliable service and access to Thailand's private hospital, Cigna offers expats peace of mind and care while they travel and live abroad.

Cigna has a silver, gold, and platinum plan with various levels of coverage. All three of these plans share several common key coverage benefits:

Pacific Cross International Health Insurance Plans for Expats in Thailand

Pacific Cross Health Insurance has over 65 years of experience in providing health and travel insurance. They offer a variety of affordable plans and packages, as well as accessible round-the-clock service.

Pacific Cross offers 9 different insurance plans, with many shared features:

AXA International Health Insurance Plans for Expats in Thailand

AXA international health insurance is another excellent option for expats in Thailand. Their plans have a range of coverage levels and different customization options. Most of their plans offer coverage yearly; however, there is also a short-term plan for 3–11 months.

Some examples of coverage under AXA insurance plans are:

AIA Insurance Plans for Expats in Thailand

AIA Insurance is one of the longest-serving insurance companies in the country, with more than 80 years of experience offering insurance to expats and locals alike. They offer health insurance, life insurance, corporate insurance, and more.

Some of their health insurance coverages are:

IMG International Health Insurance Plans for Expats in Thailand

IMG offers international medical health insurance plans for individuals and families. They provide comprehensive insurance policies, with multiple plans and payment options to fit any expat’s budget. They provide superior services to their members, like crisis support and preventative care.

Some of the shared features across their varied plans are:

Allianz International Health Insurance Plans for Expats in Thailand

Allianz offers comprehensive insurance plans in Thailand to cater to all expats’ needs. Riders are available to be purchased and attached to any basic policy that Allianz Ayudhya approves. These riders can offer coverage for accidents and other risks.

Some of the basic coverage for their plans includes:

April International Health Insurance Plans for Expats in Thailand

April International has over 30 years of experience in the international health insurance market and offers both comprehensive and flexible plans. April International provides varying levels of coverage, fully customizable policies, and a wide direct billing network.

Some of the shared coverage across their plans are:

Generali International Health Insurance Plans for Expats in Thailand

Generali offers a variety of health insurance plans, including individual health insurance, family floater health insurance, comprehensive health insurance, and critical illness insurance. They also offer a network of more than 550 private hospitals throughout Thailand.

Some of the basic coverage for their plans includes:

LMG International Health Insurance Plans for Expats in Thailand

A part of the Liberty Mutal group headquartered in Boston, USA, LMG offers coverage to expats across the globe. They offer multiple individual and family health insurance plans, with varying levels of coverage and additional customizable benefits.

Some of the shared coverage across their plans are:

Bupa Global International Health Insurance Plans for Expats in Thailand

Bupa Global is one of the largest medical networks in Hong Kong, as well as the rest of the world. They offer their members tailor-made plans and guaranteed lifetime renewal. They provide high-quality service with a personal relationship manager available for their members.

Some of the features Bupa’s plans offer include:

Dental Coverage in Thailand

When considering international health insurance plans, it's important to remember dental coverage. With the right plan, you can ensure that routine dental check-ups, cleanings, and even major dental procedures are covered.

Complete Well-being: Remember, staying healthy isn't just about emergencies. Dental and vision care play a vital role in your overall well-being.

Routine Check-ups: Look for plans that cover routine dental check-ups, cleanings, and even major dental procedures. Dental health is essential, and having coverage ensures you're covered for the unexpected.

Maternity and Family Coverage in Thailand

International health insurance plans that offer comprehensive maternity coverage can ease the financial burden of prenatal care, childbirth, and postpartum care.

Look for plans that provide coverage for maternity consultations, prenatal tests, delivery expenses, and even coverage for the newborn.

Prioritize insurance providers that understand the unique needs of expat families and offer suitable family coverage options.

• Growing Families: If you're planning to start or expand your family in Thailand, maternity coverage becomes a game-changer.
• Comprehensive Care: Prioritize plans that offer comprehensive maternity coverage. This includes prenatal care, childbirth, and postpartum expenses.
• Family-Friendly: Look for insurers that understand expat families' unique needs and offer suitable coverage options for newborns and growing families.

Preventive Care and Wellness Programs in Thailand

A robust international health insurance plan may offer benefits that focus on keeping you healthy in the first place. Look for plans that include coverage for vaccinations, regular health check-ups, screenings, and other preventive measures.

• Stay Proactive: It's not just about treating illnesses—it's about staying healthy through preventive care.
• Vaccinations and Check-ups: Seek plans that cover vaccinations, regular health check-ups, and screenings. Prevention is key to long-term well-being.
• Wellness Resources: Inquire about wellness programs and resources provided by insurance companies. These resources can help you manage your health proactively.

Pre-existing Conditions

Expats with pre-existing conditions may have limited coverage options when purchasing international insurance; however, there are still alternative solutions available. You can choose a plan with a pre-existing condition exclusion, a moratorium, or coverage with loading.

Here is a general overview of what each term means:

• Exclusion: the insurer will not pay or reimburse the policyholder for medical bills related to the condition if they choose to buy a plan from them.
• Moratorium: the insurance company offers health insurance but excludes and observes the pre-existing condition for a certain amount of time known as the waiting period. This period is usually 24 months, and then the insurance company reviews its decision.

Coverage with loading: insurance companies may offer coverage for pre-existing conditions, but only with higher premiums. Not all pre-existing conditions are eligible for this kind of coverage, and not all companies offer this option.

Tips for Healthcare in Thailand for Expats

When it comes to navigating healthcare as an expat in Thailand, a little preparation and awareness can go a long way. Here are some valuable tips to ensure you're well-prepared for your healthcare journey:

• Emergency Contact Information: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including your insurance helpline and local hospitals.
• Medical Records: Carry essential medical records like allergies, prescriptions, and pre-existing conditions.
• Local Medical Knowledge: Know the nearest hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies for quick medical access.
• Claim Process: Familiarize yourself with your insurance claim process and required documentation for reimbursement.
• Emergency Evacuation Plan: Have a plan for emergency medical evacuation, especially if you're in a remote area, and ensure your insurance covers it.

Retirees Seeking International Healthcare in Thailand

Retirees moving to Thailand must secure health insurance to meet visa requirements, particularly for the Non-Immigrant O-A or O-X long-stay visas, which require a minimum of THB 3,000,000 (USD 100,000) coverage per year. Comprehensive plans include access to private hospitals and COVID-19 coverage.

Additional Information and Resources

COVID-19 Insurance in Thailand

Since 2023, travelers are no longer required to show proof of vaccination or COVID-19 test results to enter Thailand; however, expats are still able to purchase a COVID-19 insurance policy when visiting Thailand.

COVID-19 policy coverage ranges across different plans, but generally, it will cover the costs of COVID-19 treatment, life insurance coverage, and additional travel expenses that result from the virus.

Mandatory Health Insurance for Retirees in Thailand

Expats moving to Thailand who are 50 or older and are applying for the non-immigrant O-A visa are required to have health insurance that covers at least THB ฿3 million, or USD 85,000.

Conclusion

As an expat, you may also want to consider expat health insurance in Thailand, which are usually international health insurance plans. Whether you visit your home country, travel abroad on holiday, or even decide to relocate to another country, these types of plans offer worldwide coverage.

Whichever Thailand health insurance plan you require, Pacific Prime’s highly-trained advisors take into account your exact needs and budget and recommend the right plan. What’s more, they also offer localized advice and support throughout your insurance journey.

We offer a wide variety of insurance plans with customizable coverage for all of your medical needs. Contact us today for more information or compare quotes using our online quotation system!