Travelling to Phuket, whether it’s for a tropical sunshine break or a long-term move is an exciting prospect, and the last thing you want to think about when making your plans is what happens if you get sick or have an accident whilst in a far-flung destination? Keep you and your loved ones safe and avoid large bills by ensuring you have adequate and appropriate insurance cover for medical expenses should the worst happen.
The question that always arises at this point is if the standards of medical care are up to western expectations.
Thailand has a very good reputation for its high level of care, private international hospitals offer standards that equal, and often outdo, those in the west, and compared to a lot of other countries the value for money is exceptional.
Staff are experienced and professional with doctors who have often received their training and certification abroad and are fluent in English. Thai people are also known for their hospitality and politeness and have a warm and welcoming nature.
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Medical Tourism Thailand is also recognized as a hotspot for medical tourism in Southeast Asia with a range of specialist medical centres and clinics providing a specific type of care or treatment, including plastic surgery, cardiology, orthopedics, IVF, and dentistry to mention a few. These are usually a private practice run by doctors who also work at public or private hospitals.
International Care in Phuket Phuket, in the south of the country, is a major holiday destination and home to thousands of expats from all over the world, either working here or retired, many from America, the UK and Europe.
For many tourists, the attraction of this tropical isle isn’t just the stunning golden beaches, delicious food, friendly people, and vibrant nightlife, but also the opportunity to book themselves in for a medical treatment that will improve their lives. This could be anything from a dental procedure, a thorough health check, or cosmetic surgery, to a life-saving surgical procedure.
The island offers several excellent private international hospitals equipped with up-to-date facilities, 24-hour emergency rooms and outpatient clinics. Customer service is excellent with English-speaking staff and interpreters available.
Teal Stethoscope On Wooden Table | Credit: Bongkarn Thanyakij on Pexels
Private Hospitals There are two large accredited hospitals on the island whose facilities rival those of a 5-star hotel. Bangkok Hospital, with branches located all over the country, and Siriroj International Hospital. Both have first-class reputations for quality and reliable medical care and offer an extensive range of treatments from basic healthcare to surgical services, including personalized healthcare and wellness packages.
They are very popular with tourists and expats looking for medical services related to cosmetic surgery, Lasik surgery, dental procedures, and health checkups are in demand due to the reasonable costs and low waiting times.
Other options are also very good. Mission Hospital is the first choice for many expats as it’s run as a non-profit organisation, although not as flashy as the other private hospitals it does offer a high standard of care and treatments, and prices are much lower.
Make Sure You’re Covered! Even if you’re super fit and the picture of health you should never be without insurance, accidents can happen at any time to anyone and even though medical treatment in Asia costs significantly less than Europe, hospital bills can soon mount up. Choosing the right insurance gives you peace of mind and ensures you and your family receive the best treatment available.