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.
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.
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. |
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
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Assurances Cigna Global Health Options
Silver
Couverture mondiale ou mondiale à l’exclusion des États-Unis
1 000 000 $
Plafond de garanties annuelles
Présentation
Les garanties de base du contrat Silver assurent la prise en charge des soins de jour et des frais d’hospitalisation incluant le séjour à l’hôpital et les soins médicaux
Modules supplémentaires disponibles :Aperçu de la couverture d’hospitalisation de base :
- Plafond de garanties annuelles : 1 000 000 $
- Hospitalisation et soins de jour
- Chambre individuelle
- Prise en charge complète des traitements anticancéreux
- Soins aux nouveau-nés
Gold
Couverture mondiale ou mondiale à l’exclusion des États-Unis
2 000 000 $
Plafond de garanties annuelles
Présentation
Une couverture globale, avec des plafonds annuels de remboursement plus élevés et des garanties supplémentaires incluant les soins d’hospitalisation et de maternité
Modules supplémentaires disponibles :Aperçu de la couverture d’hospitalisation de base :
- Plafond de garanties annuelles : 2 000 000 $
- Hospitalisation et soins de jour
- Chambre individuelle
- Prise en charge complète des traitements anticancéreux
- Inpatient Maternity*
Platinum
Couverture mondiale ou mondiale à l’exclusion des États-Unis
Règlement intégral
Plafond de garanties annuelles
Présentation
Notre niveau de couverture optimal offre un plafond annuel de remboursement illimité, avec la plupart des garanties en règlement intégral.
Modules supplémentaires disponibles :Aperçu de la couverture d’hospitalisation de base :
- Plafond de garanties annuelles : Règlement intégral
- Hospitalisation et soins de jour
- Chambre individuelle
- Prise en charge complète des traitements anticancéreux
- Inpatient Maternity*
- Prise en charge intégrale des soins de santé mentale et comportementale
Assurance Cigna Close Care℠
Close Care
Pays de résidence + pays de nationalité
500 000 $
Plafond de garanties annuelles
Présentation
Une couverture santé essentielle créée pour ceux qui nécessitent une prise en charge uniquement dans leur pays de résidence et dans leur pays de nationalité
Modules supplémentaires disponibles :Aperçu de la couverture d’hospitalisation de base :
- Plafond de garanties annuelles : 500 000 $
- Limite de conditions : 250 000 $
- Hospitalisation et soins de jour
- Chambre à deux lits
- Prise en charge complète des traitements anticancéreux
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.
FAQ
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.