I wanted to share some useful information:
I flew to Thailand 2 months ago to get a hip replacement. My last trip to Thailand was a long time ago. People on this site helped me with vital travel tips, because by the time time I arrived, I was in a WHEELCHAIR - (yes my condition got exponentially worse). I only knew one quick way to get started: I checked into a $30 hotel (The Palace), near Bumgrungrad, and went down there. After a visit I learned the surgery was $20,000+ USD. I knew I was simply reconnoitering and getting information. He told me to go to his alma mater, Ramathipbodi Hospital, for a better deal. It took me about 10 days to get things lined up (major surgery) at Ramathibodi: a lot of waiting, tests, etc. No other Fahrangs AT ALL - fully Thai. It wasn't so bad. I adapt and learn.
The doctor told me I had to check in WITH A FRIEND (who had to say in my room for the whole stay) or it was not possible. Since I wasn't in Thailand to recreate, and I was damn-near crippled, it looked like an Apollo 13 moment: complete failure. I went down to a legitimate massage place on Sukhumvit Road and within two days, I had arranged to have a nice woman (52 years old) - agree to help me. The doctor at Ramathipodi had already told me I needed to stay in Thailand 3 months. So first trip was to Immigration. My friend totally helped me, and major surgery is a sure-bet extended visa. After about 10 days of hospital visits, everything worked out. I was was 'fast-tracked' at Ramathipbodi Premium because I am an American and can affort $200/day hospital stay for 3 DAYS... I never saw one foreigner in over 2 weeks, weird. Surgury/stay/surgeons/prosthesis/care was 10K USD... email with questions.
I have a life-lone friend in Thailand now, and maybe could be advice to you if you need information.
Thank you everyone -
Caleb - USA
TLDR : Answer Summary
An expat shared their experience undergoing hip replacement surgery in Thailand, emphasizing the affordability and quality of care compared to the West. Despite being wheelchair-bound upon arrival, they successfully navigated hospital processes with the help of a local friend and received surgery at Ramathibodi Hospital, spending about $10,000 in total. Due to the nature of the surgery, they had to extend their stay in Thailand and manage visa requirements, which they did with local assistance. The post includes discussions on the necessity of having a companion during hospital stays in Thai hospitals and highlights positive sentiments towards Thai healthcare from various commenters.
