Answered2 years ago

What are the options for UK doctors to work as specialists in Thailand post-retirement?

Thai Visa Rules Foreign Medical Practice Working as a Doctor in Thailand Licensure for Foreign Physicians Part-time Medical Work in Thailand Medical Positions for Expats

Mark ********

asked Sep 12, 2024

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Are there any doctors on here? I’m interested in finding out what options are possible for working as a specialist in Thailand. A bit of part-time work post retirement (from the UK) would be nice.

Answer summary

UK doctors looking for part-time work in Thailand must navigate complex licensing requirements similar to their home country. It's essential to obtain a medical license to practice, and the process can be quite bureaucratic. Some suggestions include contacting local expatriate doctors for advice, volunteering with reputable organizations, or exploring academic positions if eligible. However, the Thai government has stringent regulations regarding foreign physicians, and it's noted that the competition among local Thai doctors is high due to their extensive training.

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Mary ********

Volunteer with a legit organization. Doctors without borders, etc. Licensure is very difficult.

2 years ago

Mary ********

Why dont you try for an academic position?

2 years ago

Mark ********

@Mary *******

that’s a very good idea! 😀

2 years ago

Mark ********

@Mary *******

thank you. In what way is it difficult, do you know? I was hoping that would not be the case as I’ve been registered for practice in three other countries before, granted the paperwork is tedious.

2 years ago

Mary ********

@Mark *******

in the 9 years that I have lived here (admittedly only Chiang Mai) I have only found one farang physician. There may be more in Bangkok.

The thai government doesn't want or need foreign physicians. The certification bureaucracy is way beyond anything you have ever experienced. Pretty equal to US accepting foreign MDs...pre-covid. Requiring Years of training, residency.

And quite frankly the level of training for thai MDs is incredibly high.

For eg my orthopedic surgeon did his residency at Mayo. My husband's neurologist went to Harvard. GP - Stanford. All the thai doctors I know spend the majority of their time in the NHS. My impression is it's mandatory.

Set up an actual practice probably is not going to happen.

2 years ago

Mark ********

@Mary *******

well that’s good to know. My residency was at the UCL and I have a university academic position so not a ‘bog standard’ NHS specialist if that is what you are implying. Good to have an insight into what the Thai government wants though. Thank you again 🙏🏼

2 years ago

Michael *********

Go to the Philippines they desperately need competent doctors

2 years ago

Mark ********

@Michael ********

good to know, thank you

2 years ago