Is self-insuring for healthcare a viable option for expats in Thailand?

@Bernie ************

o retirement visa dues not require insurance …yet

@Paul *******

most o visas do not require insurance

@Andy *********

have seen many Accident policies but not found critical illness as a stand alone product

@Peter ******

yes, nothing is free here. The government hospitals use the same doctors as the private hospitals & clinics. Doctors are required to rotate within the hospital network. And other than certain clinics like Muslim ones, lots clinics are those doctors in rotation, own private clinics. Unlike with western countries greed, in Thailand they are here to heal all.

@Peter ******

you are right. I am Thai who is thinking about retiring in Thailand. My family opts to be taken care of at the private hospitals as there is no long waits. My father had his hips replacement at Bamrungraj Hospital about 15 years ago for 700,000 baht and mom had hips replacement for 400,000 baht (I think) at Samitivej Hospital 2 years ago. Even though you are at private hospitals, I can see difference in pricing. I think it depends on where you go. If you goes to public hospitals, make sure you go early. And yes, it would be much cheaper. I have an insurance in Maryland and the wait for a new doctor is about 2-3 months. Now, I am in search for a primary care physician. I called several doctors and they said they did not take any more new patients. I never heard of that in Thailand. You will see a doctor and do not have to wait that long.

@Dwayne *******

Normal in the States putting bullets in heads and not just animals.

@Paul ******

I like it. Good strategy. I couldn't get any cover with an insurance company I had confidence in.

I remember Warren Buffett's strategy regarding insurance. He said if you banked your premium each month you would come out way ahead. I put AUD$100 into.an account each month so I end up with a reserve like you plus like you. A flight home if it's serious for free cover.

@Paul ******

, following

@Paul ******

Dangerous game as I found out last year. Had a very significant fracture that Im still on physio for 14 months on. Needed surgery and luckily I got a 'fit to fly' certificate to go back to England otherwise I would have been goosed!

Once I end up living in Thailand Im gonna make sure Im covered FULLY and been quoted aroud 5000 baht a month which I will deduct from my condo rental, so in effect instead of living in Pattaya for 15k - 20k, I'll live Na Jomtien or even Bang Saray for 10 - 15k

My health is way more important than a snazzy gaff 😆