Thailand
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International Health Insurance in Thailand

Find out all you need to know about the healthcare system and how to get health insurance in Thailand with Cigna.

Thailand is often called ‘the Land of Smiles’, and for good reason. It’s a popular location for expats and travelers, boasting a low cost of living, stunning weather, amazing sights and tasty food. Expats are drawn by the promise of a warm-weather retirement, incredible scenery and fantastic employment opportunities in the tourism sector.

Whether you’re a short-term or long-term visitor, it’s mandatory to hold travel or international insurance that covers COVID-19 and has a minimum coverage of $100,000.

How does Thailand’s healthcare system work?

Thailand began a Universal Coverage Scheme (UCS) in 2002, opening healthcare to all its citizens. Many services are free for all, as healthcare is funded by tax revenue.
 
The government funds hospitals, and a range of pharmaceutical drugs are produced within the country, keeping prices low. Thailand’s healthcare is recognised as among the best in the world.

However, unless you are eligible for healthcare coverage through a Thai employer, you’ll be expected to pay for a private insurance plan while you’re in Thailand. Multiple plans offer a range of different coverage options.

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Pros and cons of using Thailand's public health system


Pros

Some of the benefits of the local health system include:

  • Language - many doctors and other specialists speak English and private hospitals employ staff educated at prominent universities.
  • Available – there are many pharmacies across Thailand, from its cities to smaller towns. They’re easily recognisable and usually open seven days a week.
  • UCS - legally working expats qualify for the UCS, funded by monthly salary deductions.

Get a quote today


Cons

Some of the potential drawbacks include:

  • Free consultations can be brief, with medications limited to generics.
  • Public healthcare is usually limited to certain hospitals and not included if an out-of-network hospital is required for treatment.
  • There may be fewer care options than those you might find in a private hospital.

What’s the difference between public and private healthcare in Thailand?

Public Private
Funded by government. Wider service options and standard of care.
Residents qualify through UCS. Deeper level of service.
Widely available.  

Read our everyday guide to life in Thailand

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How can international health insurance help you in Thailand?

International health insurance unlocks access to private international hospitals. You’ll receive the best quality services and treatment at first-class facilities.

Choosing your international health insurance

Get started

Answer a few questions and enter your personal details to get started.

Choose your plan

Compare plans and find a flexible package to suit your needs.

Get protected

Receive your quote and get protected today.

Cigna Global Health Options Plans

Silver

Worldwide or worldwide excluding USA cover

$1,000,000

Annual benefit limit

Overview

The core benefits on the Silver plan provide international inpatient and daypatient cover, including hospital stays and treatment.

Available additional modules:
  • Outpatient
  • Evacuation and Crisis Assistance Plus™
  • Health and Wellbeing
  • Vision and Dental
  • Core hospitalisation cover overview:

    • Annual benefit limit: $1,000,000
    • Inpatient and daypatient treatment
    • Private room
    • Full cancer care
    • Newborn care cover

    Gold

    Worldwide or worldwide excluding USA cover

    $2,000,000

    Annual benefit limit

    Overview

    Comprehensive coverage, with higher overall annual limits and added benefits including inpatient maternity care.

    Available additional modules:
  • Outpatient
  • Evacuation and Crisis Assistance Plus™
  • Health and Wellbeing
  • Vision and Dental
  • Core hospitalisation cover overview:

    • Annual benefit limit: $2,000,000
    • Inpatient and daypatient treatment
    • Private room
    • Full cancer care
    • Inpatient Maternity*

    Platinum

    Worldwide or worldwide excluding USA cover

    Paid in full

    Annual benefit limit

    Overview

    Our highest level of coverage offers an unlimited overall annual limit, with most benefits being paid in full.

    Available additional modules:
  • Outpatient
  • Evacuation and Crisis Assistance Plus™
  • Health and Wellbeing
  • Vision and Dental
  • Core hospitalisation cover overview:

    • Annual benefit limit: Paid in full
    • Inpatient and daypatient treatment
    • Private room
    • Full cancer care
    • Inpatient Maternity*
    • Mental and Behavioural Health care paid in full

    Cigna Close Care℠ Plan

    Close Care

    Country of residence + Country of nationality

    $500,000

    Annual benefit limit

    Overview

    An essential health plan created for those who need coverage only in their country of residence, and their country of nationality.

    Available additional modules:
  • Outpatient and Wellness Care
  • Dental Care and Treatment
  • Core hospitalisation cover overview:

    • Annual benefit limit: $500,000
    • Condition limit: $250,000
    • Inpatient and daypatient treatment
    • Semi-private room
    • Full cancer care

    Why choose Cigna for health insurance in Thailand?

    • Access to healthcare for expats and non-residents.
    • Find medical practitioners in over 192 other countries.
    • 24/7 access to our customer care team.
    • Reliable service and access to Thailand's leading private hospitals.

    Get a quote today
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    FAQs

    Foreign nationals can only access publicly funded Thai healthcare if they have insurance, either through a Thai employer or as private cover

    Start your claim by contacting our Customer Care Team and providing us with all the details regarding your health requirements.

    All expats are required by law to have health insurance. If you’re moving for work purposes, you may not have to consider any further coverage as you will qualify for social security, funded by a reduction in your monthly salary. However, it’s worth remembering that social security doesn’t provide complete cover.

    Yes, as of 2021, all visitors to Thailand must have a mandatory COVID-19 insurance plan that covers visitors for a minimum of $100,000. This is because most standard health insurance policies don’t cover the insured against pandemics.