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Why is travel insurance important for expats in Thailand, particularly after a medical emergency?
Travel InsuranceMedical EmergenciesExpats in ThailandThailand HealthcareVisa and ImmigrationAccident InsuranceHospital Costs in ThailandPrivate vs Public HospitalsHealth Insurance Options
Nov 18, 2023
2 years ago
Bob ********
ORIGINAL POSTERJust a Sobering thought for those thinking about whether they really need travel Insurance, last Tuesday evening my wife stepped off the kerb in Bkk. Something she has done hundreds of times in the last month. This time she hit a bit of rough bitumen, fell, and broke 2 bones in her ankle. Picked her up from hospital today, we are still to fly home but cost 325,000 bht to date. Convert that into your own currency in $Aud it's $16000 according to my credit card
TLDR : Answer Summary
A recent incident highlighted the necessity of travel insurance for expats in Thailand. After a person’s wife suffered an ankle fracture, the medical costs skyrocketed to 325,000 THB, approximately $16,000 AUD, showcasing the potentially high expenses associated with medical care in private hospitals. Many commenters stressed the importance of travel insurance, sharing personal experiences with healthcare in Thailand. While private hospitals offer world-class service, they can come with steep bills, particularly for foreigners. Various discussions centered around the adequacy of different insurance plans, pre-existing conditions affecting coverage, and the need for ample accident insurance to avoid financial burdens during unexpected health crises.
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Sharon ********
Payed $
*****
for 2 broken arms ,fractured cheek.forehead,fractures ,definitely worth to have insuranceGarry *************
I travel Thailand every year for the past 16 years. I always take travel insurance in fact am over insured I take out the free one with credit card and one I pay for..silly I think. I cannot fathom people who do not take out insurance. You always hear of stories people do not have insurance inevitable they have accident then they have a Go Fund me page to cover costs I have sympathy for them but do not give. My self believe should be a charge 500, 1000B whatever for every arrival into county or any country. It would more than cover costs to that country in fact make money. The insurance companies would not like.
Jake *****
I pay about 30K baht every year for insurance (AIA), it turns 3 years now. I had an operation on a gallbladder stone to remove it at the Phyathai Hospital in Siracha in 2nd year. It was costs 275,000 baht in total and covered by AIA insurance. Frankly, insurance costs some heavy on my shoulders but I'm satisfying and have no choice for living in Thailand 😅😅😅
Barry *******
My apologies, thought the 16 K was thought to be in U.S. dollars
Barry *******
I believe the conversion is a little over 9 K in U.S. dollars as opposed to 16 K
Chainie ******
Good thing is that she is safe and well. You made the right choice to get treated in a private hospital. It is still better than a government one, better medications...etc, just from my personal experiences.
Melanie ********
Absolutely, if you can afford to travel, you can afford insurance !
If you can afford to move overseas, you can afford insurance ❤️❤️❤️
If you can afford to move overseas, you can afford insurance ❤️❤️❤️
Mark *********
@Melanie *******
I agree Melanie. There are tradeoffs though. As you age it, insurance is expensive, but better than the risk of not having it.Melanie ********
@Mark ********
absolutely we are 52 and 60 with a heart attack It’s not cheap, but for me, it’s a no brainer
Mark *********
@Melanie *******
This 76 yr old agrees 100%Debbie ***********
@Mark ********
were you able to find insurance at 76? My husband will be 74 next year and the company we looked into didn't cover over 74Mark *********
@Debbie *********
I get it in Canada for 6 months with Allianz.Reply to
Mark *********
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Stephen *********
Three trips to Thailand, 2 stints in hospital, one with food poisoning, the other dehydration. Insured on both occasions and treated like Royalty in hospitals that are like 5* hotels. I wouldn't travel anywhere without it, but make sure that you disclose all pre-existing conditions, they will do anything to get out of paying.
And make sure if you can that you or the hospital contact your insurers as soon as you are admitted to hospital to make them aware.
And make sure if you can that you or the hospital contact your insurers as soon as you are admitted to hospital to make them aware.
Mark *********
@Stephen ********
Agree. My two hospital stays were brilliant.Reply to
Mark *********
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Adele *********
@Emily *****************
… did you sort yours? XxNorman **********
I take it travel insurance won’t cover it?
Nika ********
This sounds like Bumrungrad hospital, owned by US . Good hospital but extremely high prices in comparison with government hospitals and clinics
Larry ********
@Nika *******
a long time ago my girlfriend broke her arm while we were in Nepal. It cost $12 USD to x-rays and cast.. they removed the cast on Ko pipi for less than that. I've had a few doctors in Asia and it costs the same as a pad Thai.Nika ********
i also used to get a full check up for less than 3000 baht at thonburi hospital and siriraj for less than that.. everything has now changed..
Nika ********
Hi Larry, a long time ago those were the prices and certainly not at this particular hospital. Public hospitals are still reasonable, the private ones are expensive now without insurance. also its relative to where you are from US hospitals are out of control..
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Nika ********
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Nika ********
@Christian *********
yes you are correct. It is Thai owned and managed by US administrators and approved and certified by US standards. And it has a mc.donalds on the premises🤣Christian **********
@Nika *******
I'm curious where you're sourcing your information. To my knowledge the management team is made up of administrators from multiple countries of which the US is one. That would not be unusual for any institution seeking international credentials, investors and staff. That there is a McDonald's on the premises indicates nothing. That restaurant is a locally-owned franchise as are all McDonald's in Thailand. I hope you wouldn't suggest that by their presence in the county that Thailand is "owned" by the US.Reply to
Christian **********
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Christian **********
@Nika *******
Perhaps be a bit more careful with your "facts". Bangkok Dusit Medical Services, the owner of Bumrungrad 1 Hospital, is Thailand's largest private healthcare group. It was founded by the Thai billionaire Prasert Prasarttong-Osoth.Reply to
Christian **********
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Rich *****
@Wayne *******
, as someone who runs out of talent quite often in a motocross bike, it’s been cheaper to get fixed up in Thailand than paying to park at the hospital in the UK!Wayne ********
@Rich ****
true! Hospital car park fees in UK are astronomical!!Reply to
Wayne ********
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David **********
Well I use bangkok hospital in khon kaen
And can only say in my experience they give very good service you can see a consultant
More or less straight away for around 800bht on average in England maybe free but uou have yo wait months to see some one private to see a consultant 800 pounds up
Yes they have alot of little add ons but generally good service
And can only say in my experience they give very good service you can see a consultant
More or less straight away for around 800bht on average in England maybe free but uou have yo wait months to see some one private to see a consultant 800 pounds up
Yes they have alot of little add ons but generally good service
Justin ********
@David *********
in london I pay £320 for private consultant. So where have you had one £800 upwards?David **********
@Justin *******
son in law went to see a consultant about his k er ,£ 650 My point was Thailand very affordable and quick
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David **********
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Γιώργος ************
May i ask ..your wife is thai???if yes can't use public hospitals??
Steven *********
You must have gone to Bangkok Hosp. They are the most expensive.
Yorick ******
Most travel insurances are only valid when you buy it before your trip. However, there are some options for valid travel insurance you can get when you are already here as well. For more info on this or actual health insurance contact
***********************
Simon **********
So sorry to hear this.
Tony *******
Sounds like they took advantage of you.
Shane **********
Complimentary travel insurance is available with certain credit cards. All you need to do is use the card for around $250 on your trip, such as airline ticket purchase and the cover includes family for up to six months.
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Boglárka ********
Half of the comments blame the hospital. 🙈 Wake up! Have a freaking Insurance. Period.
Mark *********
@Boglárka *******
Agree totally. Stop cheaping out and blaming others!Reply to
Mark *********
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Bryan *****
@Khoi ****
remember to buy insuranceBarbara *********
Yes, buy insurance but make sure you get everything you sign up for. I bought accident insurance for years. Never needed to use it until this year. I have a few minor accidents st the gym, filed them and they begrudgingly paid. Then I had a major slip and fall in a hotel shower 2 weeks ago. They only paid part of the bill and refused to pay for my arm sling. Also, if you need meds, do not get them at the hospital. Just ask for the prescription. Buy it at a local pharmacy. Its more than half the price less. Yes, they will charge foreigners more at city hospitals. No all, but you have to be careful.
Jeff *****
Wow
Kenny **********
Faye travel insurance.
Dennis ***********
@Kenny *********
Any info appreciated ThxKenny **********
@Dennis **********
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Kenny **********
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Rod *********************
F#k that..I'd just walk it off, she'll be right type of attitude
Rich ************
*****
usd 3 day hospital emergency surgery Bangkok Hospital very reasonableNelson ****
Did you keep the wife ?
Mark *********
If you were a non-resident of BC, Canada where I come from w/o insurance it would cost you a lot more than this at our hospitals!
Jody *******
@Mark ********
IrrelevantMark *********
@Jody ******
Not at all. You are paying for talent, trying, education and training as well as the hospital infrastructure and administration.Jody *******
@Mark ********
We are not talking about Canada.Mark *********
@Jody ******
No. Here. Many, many doctors and dentists here are trained in Australia and the US. If hospitals aren't properly funded you end up with something like the NHS mess on England.Jody *******
@Mark ********
There are some good doctors here, but a lot of hacks too. Quality here is patchy. Buyer beware. Do your homework when choosing doctors.Mark *********
@Jody ******
Like anywhere I suppose. That's why in the west at least we have medical boards that can discipline doctors. I don't know for sure if they have that here, but I suspevt not. Anyone knows?Jody *******
@Mark ********
Oh, I'd definitely get medical treatment in the West, if possible. Sure, you still have to beware there too, but there are a lot more safeguards legally etc & a larger base of highly skilled doctors.Mark *********
@Jody ******
I would go with the West too if I had a viable and economic choice as that is what I am familiar with and in my comfort zone. Mind you I have been a guest of hospitals in Udon and Hua Hin for back problems and find poisoning, and both times I had great and affordable treatment.Jody *******
@Mark ********
That's good to hear! :)Mark *********
@Jody ******
Whoops "food poisoning". I also went to a hospital in Chiangmai for my back-just an outpatient. If you're here and you need treatment, going back to your home country may make sense, but not always.Reply to
Mark *********
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Albert *******
Terrible luck . Wish your family well sir . And good advice about insurance . At least have accidental coverage
Martin *********
Yes its just stupidity to take out holiday insurance
Jason **********
More than likely similar pricing if you were to hurt yourself in Aus without Medicare and insurance. I’ve lived here for 18yrs and needed an emergency operation in Perth while back visiting. Gallbladder removal. By memory it cost me $11,000aud.
Franky ******
Can I ask why you had to pay if you are covered already ? cheers Hopefully she will mend quickly .
Andrew *******
Wow. Did that include surgical intervention and/or repatriation?
Russell ***********
@Andrew ******
major surgery on his walletReply to
Russell ***********
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Chris ****
Good advice
Rich *****
Why get travel insurance when you can set up a go fund me page for free ! 🙈
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Erol ********
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Christian **********
Remarkable comments here that have nothing to do with your post. Thanks
@B**
Larkin for pointing out the wisdom in purchasing travel insurance before embarking on a trip. By definition an accident is never *planned". And most travelers won't have the choice or the presence of mind to choose which hospital will treat them. For most travelers the cost of travel insurance is a small fraction of ones travel budget. Here's wishing your wife a full recovery from her injury.Christian **********
@John ********
You're not the first to assume that my given name has anything to do with what I do or do not believe. Aside from that intended slight, references to health insurance from expats have nothing to do with the worthiness of travel insurance for travelers. And no one would argue that there are cheaper alternatives to private hospitals in Thailand, but as I noted many, if not most travelers would not be aware of those differences nor might they be in a condition to have a say in the matter.John *********
@Christian *********
Remarkable name. Don't believe everything you read. Especially in "holy books". BTW every comment on hear that I have read was relevant to the original post. Some just suggesting that there are viable alternatives to expensive international hospital.Sheen ************
@John ********
pointless droning on about alternative hospitals after the event. Anyway most don’t have luxury of planning where to be treated after an accident as just grateful for someone doing somethingJohn *********
@Sheen ***********
I seem to have managed quite well don't you think? Don't judge "most people" by your own capabilities. Some can think for themselves.Reply to
John *********
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Peter *******
Private hospitals will milk it for sure
Chris ******************
@Peter ******
sure they want you sure to stay..🙏🙏✌️✌️Reply to
Chris ******************
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Lyb ******
In Belgium, we have a mandatory health insurance that also includes travel insurance. There is a 'franchise' of 250 euro (this term is used over here in Belgium). That means that, when admitted to hospital, and let's say the cost is maximum 250 euro, all costs above that 250 euro is paid for by the insurance company. Last January I was admitted to Bangkok Hospital in Phuket. 2 kidney stones removed and they discovered a tumor in my bladder which they also removed. Needed to stay for 9 days and had to go back after a couple of weeks to blast away a 3rd kidney stone. I saw the hospital bill and 😵💫😵💫😵💫. Anyway, I hope that your wife recovers fully. Best of luck to you 👍
Bob ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Lyb *****
Thank you, and our insurance company just upgraded us to business class on the trip back home so my wife will be more comfortable.Reply to
Bob ********
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Chris ******************
Order bupa an danish insuranse and cover the most.
Scott *********
How much do you think an uninsured thai visitor to Australia would havd to pay in Oz for the same procedures?
Lo ******
@Scott ********
More than likely similar pricing if you were to hurt yourself in Aus without Medicare and insurance. I’ve lived here for 18yrs and needed an emergency operation in Perth while back visiting. Gallbladder removal. By memory it cost me $11,000aud. Answer from @Jason WheatleyJody *******
@Scott ********
IrrelevantScott *********
@Jody ******
that's not an answerReply to
Scott *********
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Mma *******
You need to ask before they do anything how much it will be. You got ripped off mate- or your insurance company did , ridiculous sum.
Puggs **********
Sorry but you've been ripped off!!!!
I had an emergency hernia operation last year including 5 nights private room with full board in Sao Paulo private hospital, total cost 185,000฿
I had an emergency hernia operation last year including 5 nights private room with full board in Sao Paulo private hospital, total cost 185,000฿
John ***********
@Puggs *********
You got ripped off too. I had a hernia operation done in Cambodia in 2019 for a total of $US450 but was in and out in a day. Turned out to be the more serious femoral rather than inguinal. Generally travel insurance does not cover hernias treating them as an existing condition, so if you were covered, you were extremely fortunate.Chris ******************
@Puggs *********
sure many people probably have but sad for u that your not covered by a steady insurance..Reply to
Chris ******************
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Billy *******
Yea and watch them squirm out of paying on some fine print. Insurance companies deserve a seat next to Wisconsin divorce courts in Hell.
Marijke ********
I have an travel and health assurance all year long for all over the world. Added for a few dollars to my health assurance
Ronald *****
I just don't understand why people can afford to go holiday, yet want to save on the insurance money that really is just less than a hundred dollars??..
John ***********
@Ronald ****
Just less than $100? I paid over $330 Australian for just a month's insurance in June. Travel insurance has become expensive.Mark *********
I had a bad motorcycle accident on the USA in 2006. I was ambulanced to Intensive Care with 6 fractured ribs, damaged legs and a concussion. I was there 3 nights and then ambulanced back to Canada. In Canada I was a week in Emergency and 3 months in Rehab (1 month of that at the facility and 2 months as an outpatient), and a year at a gymn and physio-with all that back to 99.44% pre-accident. My bill to my Canadian insurer for the US stay was just over $50,000 US. The insurer told me that they would negotiate it down. My Canadian doctors said that the care I received in the US was outstanding and they did everything that they could havevand should have (no expense spared!). The point is that yes, medical care is expensive and you are not just paying for the procedure, simple as it may be. You are paying for all the professionals' training and knowledge to get them there as well as the hospital and infrastructure. I read farangs complaining all the time about hospital costs here, but the costs in most cases are less than they would be in peoples' home countries. Not only that, but the service here is quick and efficient. Countries like mine (Canada) and England as well as others (perhaps the US or your country?) are struggling with an overloaded and under funded system with horrendous waiting times. I believe that anyone who travels should have medical insurance or the resources to pay the bills in case an emergency should arise. And if the emergency should arise and you have to pay, don't complain about being ripped off.
Mark *********
@John **********
Yes, but when you need it you need it!John ***********
@Mark ********
Yes but I am refuting your cost of insurance unless the $100 is for a couple of weeks only.Reply to
John ***********
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Radek *******
My bank is giving me travel insurance worth 20 million THB on my credit card for free. Don't most banks do it? It's valid for 3 months when traveling abroad, after that you have to stay at least 1 day at home, and can repeat it. I did use it about a year ago, they just called a private hospital, best in the area, and gave them open credit for my treatment. I paid nothing in place.
If your credit card company does not provide it, some online bank services like Revolut, with they cheap paid plans (US$ 15 / month) offer travel insurance within the program for free.
If your credit card company does not provide it, some online bank services like Revolut, with they cheap paid plans (US$ 15 / month) offer travel insurance within the program for free.
Peter ******
When you buy your ticket . With anz visa get 6 months insurance free. Used it . Excellent
Alex ********
if you are staying in thailand long term its not travel insurance you are after its international health insurance
Nick *******
A complete scam these private hospitals in Thailand. Corruption at its best.
Tony *******
@Nick ******
all private hospitals are a scam. It's about $$$$$$$$Boglárka ********
@Nick ******
you nailed it. 🤔 Oh wait. Isnt it the insurrance you should have, rather than blame the hospital?Nick *******
@Boglárka *******
even with insurance, the companies will find a way not to pay out. It's a no win situation.Reply to
Nick *******
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John *********
@Nick ******
Helpful hint: Don't go.Nick *******
@John ********
not easy if you are involved in a serious accident or illness & the medical rescue pick up takes you straight to the nearest private hospital. Not happened to me yet thankfully.Bonnie *********
@Nick ******
I got hit by a car and the ambulance took me to the University hospital.Reply to
Bonnie *********
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Bonnie *********
@Nick ******
They can't touch the corruption of US hospitals.Chris ******************
@Nick ******
maybe you meet the wrong dr or so.. Were is in not corruption. But i asume less in Queen hospital bjt sure there is even in privat even more..Nick *******
@Chris *****************
i have lived here long enough to know that it does not cost 325,000b to fix 2 broken bones in an ankle. You don't need to stay that long there. Probably 4-5 hrs max. After xrays & fixing plaster on the ankle. Standatd procedure. So yes they were scammedChris ******************
@Nick ******
it all dippense whats need to be done.. my friend had to get back bcs infections, but all good and covered..Reply to
Chris ******************
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Billy *********
Genki will cover your bills straight away for a monthly fee underwritien by AXA. Paying €60 a month but health insurance not travel insurance.
Chris ******************
K bank cover
*****
0k bt local hospital recomand it about 2500-3000 bt year accident insurance.. It worth it pay up front bet get it back in weeks 🙏🙏🙏Shannon ********
@Chris *****************
why do u get accidental? Does it cover riding a motorcycle?Chris ******************
@Shannon *******
i case you walk and fall or any like that.. you can also get more expensive once what cover more.Shannon ********
@Chris *****************
u thinking u gonna trip and fall, hahaChris ******************
@Shannon *******
i felt in the shower me and broke my arm 🤷♂️🤷♂️🤷♂️Shannon ********
@Chris *****************
yikes, sorry brotherReply to
Shannon ********
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Brett *****
I'm guessing you got railroaded into using one of the expensive private hospitals?
Bob ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Brett ****
No there are more expensive hospitals, my comment was not to explore the best or worst hospitals rather the pitfalls, of not taking out a policy. Having a map of affordable hospitals in every country I visit is not on my bucket list. Been travelling for 50 yrs, this is our first medical issue. Lost bags, cancelled flights yes. Just a risk you can manageBrett *****
@Bob *******
If you're okay with it, I guess...It's just that some of the government hospitals are excellent, I use the army hospital in Korat (fort suranaree). Clean, cheap and offers most services.
Bob ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Brett ****
I agree but being a resident is a lot different to being a tourist.Brett *****
@Bob *******
No need to be a resident though. Actually right now I have no visa at all, but they gave me a membership card regardless.Reply to
Brett *****
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Nick *******
@Bob *******
325,000b is certainly not a risk you can manage. You been totally screwed over. Do ur home work. Don't go private hospitals if no insurance. Go Government ones.Reply to
Nick *******
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Chizel *******
After growing up in the bush and serving many years in the Army there's not alot left that isn't considered pre-existing conditions in my case lol.
Greg *********
Obviously, insurance (of any kind) is a gamble. You're paying for something you hope you don't need. But if/when you DO need it, it's too late to get it if you don't already have it. Just be sure to read those "limitations & exclusions" in your contract's fine print, because, as they say, the devil is in the details.
Biagio **********
I just had a massive kidney stone removed that was causing extreme pain and for sure to lead to serious health complications. Thank god I had travel health insurance. I received excellent care at Bangkok hospital in pattaya and would’ve had no way to pay the costs of the procedure otherwise.
Shannon ********
@Biagio *********
what's your insurance?Biagio **********
@Shannon *******
Cigna healthcare.. expensive and high deductible but they did pay right away.Shannon ********
@Biagio *********
yea, i think in my past experience, cigna is one of the only ones that will pay upfront. i am not even sure if they do anymore though. but they did a couple of years ago. seems after covid, its hard to get anything reasonable nowadays.Reply to
Shannon ********
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Keith ******
@Biagio *********
I also had a kidney stone removed in Bangkok. My travel insurance paid the hospital direct and the bill was just over £4,000 and that was 13 years ago.I couldn’t fault the care I received but when they know you have insurance they carry out every test they can to increase the bill.
I would never travel without insurance.
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Keith ******
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Dave **********
Did you go to the public hospital??
Chris ******************
@Dave *********
they are all diffrent prices..Sirikit must be one og the best local..Rune *****
@Chris *****************
heard thaksin is ok, but I would choose sirikitReply to
Rune *****
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David *********
Its impt to have a insurance in thailand if you want to use the private hospitals. The service is great, equipment world class but expensive. Learned the hard way about not getting it earlier cos as we age, we accumulate more problems that results in exclusions.
Robert *******
@David ********
Which health problems would exclude someone from obtaining health insurance?Dianne *****
@Robert ******
I had visited a physio in my own country for back pain related to lifting and caring for my elderly mother at home in the period before she died. This was 3 years before I took out insurance in Thailand, I had no lasting back injury, no lingering pain, was not taking any medication for back pain, had not required any surgery or ongoing physio in the preceding 3 years. Yet the insurance company excluded my entire spine from coverageDavid *********
@Robert ******
i have high chlolestrol and hypertension, the insurance excluded all heart issues from the cover.Robert *******
@David ********
Thank youReply to
Robert *******
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Robert ******
Racist all of them ok pay maybe 10% more as your a foreigner even that’s out of order but these will have your pants down here
John *********
@Robert *****
If you're English you're definitely a gammon.Robert ******
@John ********
What’s a gammon mushJohn *********
@Robert *****
:-)Robert ******
@John ********
R soleReply to
Robert ******
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Ivan ************
@Rob***
Foreigners have to pay more on the NHS as well; they are charged 150% of the actual cost of the treatment. Brits get this for 0%.******************************************************************************************************
Jody *******
@Ivan ***********
England is lost... I think everyone gets that by now...Brent *******
@Ivan ***********
a 2014 article but never actually happened (or at least enforced). Mind you, not sure anymore as I have been away from the UK for 15 years now.
Ivan ************
@Br***
it did happen. That's how it is now."If you're visiting England from outside the European Economic Area (EEA), even if you're a former UK resident, you'll be charged for NHS secondary care at 150% of the standard NHS rate, unless an exemption from the charge category applies to either you or the treatment."
"You'll need to pay the full estimated cost in advance, unless this would prevent or delay treatment that a clinician determines is urgent. If so, you can pay afterwards."
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Ivan ************
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Av **********
Could have went to chula
Γιώργος ************
Hi.
Have someone use the AXA insurance.
I am thinking take this.
Have someone use the AXA insurance.
I am thinking take this.
Γιώργος ************
I'll take from Arawan Namak AXA but 90 days
Patrick *****
@Γιώργος ***********
only used the AXA Sawadee Traveler. The main reason I use AXA in Thailand is that for major accidents, the hospital bill AXA directly. So nothing out of pocket. Downside is it’s only 30 or 60 days. For outpatient - one has to go through the process of claiming etc. hope this helps
Γιώργος ************
@Patrick ****
Thanks for your answer. I think AXA bill hospital if you stay at least one night, otherwise pay alone and wait to take back.......Patrick *****
@Γιώργος ***********
yes, you are correct. That’s the most impt thing to me in buying insurance - to not pay out of pocket the big hospital costs like accidents and emergency services. Last thing I want is a disputed huge hospital bill after I have paid.
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Patrick *****
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Chris ******************
@Γιώργος ***********
can use any thai insurance from bank and its about 2500-3000bt a year accident insurance not bad at all..Γιώργος ************
@Chris *****************
Thanks for answer. Looks nice but you know what cover or how pay.Monday I'll call my bank in Thailand to askDianne *****
@Γιώργος ***********
check carefully what the limits are on the accident insurance from the bank. Some are as low as 50,000 baht which is fine if you just need an x-ray and patching up after coming of your bike. But if you were head injured, required ICU care or multiple operations, accident insurance from the bank would not go anywhere near covering your costs. Often in the case of a serious accident you don't have a choice which hospital you are taken to (if you are unconcious and seriously injured) and a lot of costs have occurred by the time you are in a position to make such decisions. Have a look at what a number of Thai and international insurance companies offer/cover and compare with what the insurance from the bank coversChris ******************
@Γιώργος ***********
motobike , you fall in the sgairs in the bathroom etc and more..Chris ******************
Thats should be in accident insurans.. if not the motorbike, bike have insuranse.
Chris ******************
@Γιώργος ***********
accident insurance *****
0k in local hospital... use Sirikit not banglamung if your in Chonburi. But need to pay hospital first then you get it back, in some weeks.. but ask the price first before do any.. 🙏🙏✌️✌️Reply to
Chris ******************
Reply
Chris ******************
@Rune ****
and covered by Thai insurance aswell well done insurance in Thailand, at least something work.. 🙏🙏🙏Rune *****
@Chris *****************
took a few weeks, but, yes. Reimbursed. And think the insurance was approx 2500b pr yearChris ******************
@Rune ****
fair enough that 🙏🙏🙏Reply to
Chris ******************
Reply
Shaughn ***********
I'm assuming she needed some surgery done as apposed to getting a cast put on?
Michael ********
Hope she get better soon . Indeed you should have a travel insurance.
Russell ***********
private hospital ? there are Military, University & Government Hospitals that you may have used instead
Russell ***********
@Bob *******
in which case, they have well & truly stitched you up too 😂Ivan ************
@B**
if you're conscious, and insurance isn't paying for it, it's a good idea. 325k for a broken ankle is crazy, they are taking you (or your insurance company) for a ride.Alistair **********
@Ivan ***********
surprised it cost that much, my uncle had a stroke and was in ICU for 2 days and it still cost way less than that. At a private hospital.Reply to
Alistair **********
Reply
Robert ******
@Russell **********
The Thai government hospital will also charge you more than double for being a foreigner i know that for a factJohn *******
@Robert *****
In a government hospital, u do not pay for the doctors! I always used Thamasat hospital. They may do more tests, but I was never charged for doctors. 2 glands removed for only *****
baht. I chose general ward and saved about *****
baht.Jacob ********
@John ******
Located in Bangkok?John *******
@Jacob *******
Pathumthani.Reply to
John *******
Reply
Paul *********
@Robert *****
because obviously you weren't insuredRussell ***********
@Robert *****
maybe, but not 325k, I know that for a factIvan ************
@Rob***
it's still very cheap, even double is still cheap. It's much cheaper than private. 325k for a broken ankle is crazy money.Reply to
Ivan ************
Reply
Bob ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Russell **********
you're on holidays in a foreign country on the side of the road with bones sticking out of the side of your ankle. What do you do ???ask the ambulance driver (no English,) take me to a cheap hospital I don't think soJacob ********
@Bob *******
I speak Thai no issues there.Kim *********
@Jody ******
her husband said don't you think he could see it? what a strange questionReply to
Kim *********
Reply
Jacob ********
Foreigners have to pay more. That is seriously screwed up.
Jim ********
@Jacob *******
Your insurance covers what you pay, so who cares?Bob ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Jacob *******
No that's a standard rate our Thai friends poured over the bill with a fine tooth comb, and it was in line with the estimated cost we were given on arrival, great service at a good hospital of international standard. Just saying don't be tempted to save a few bucks by not taking out a policy. Mine is on the credit card I use, so at least we will get FF points.Josette ****************
@Bob *******
if she had surgery and had a few days overnight at the hospital, I would say it is about what it cost here as I had a similar experience last year. The care I got was amazing and it would have cost a lot more in my country. Wishing your wife a speedy and total recovery. Tell her to not undestimate the importance of doing physio therapy to keep her injured leg strong while she is in the non weight bearing phase. She will recover much faster when she can start putting weight again on her foot.Andy ********
@Bob *******
My son recently got a bout of man flu but days later started losing the feeling in his hands and feet. After several hospital visits he went to Ram hospital where hevwas quickly diagnosed with Guillain-barre-syndrome and put in Immunoglobulin treatment which is the only cure. He started to have erratic heartbeat and crazy high blood pressure and intense pain in his spine. 10 days and 1 million baht later he was in a much better place but as he had no insurance it was the bank of Dad. I couldn't believe how expensive the Immunoglobulin was si checked on the Internet and it was still much cheaper than in the UK. Insurance can be a financial life saver (no pun intended). I'd never even heard of Guillain-barre-syndrome but its getting more common.Jacob ********
And I thought the USA was expensive. Still that is a rip off.
John ***********
@Jacob *******
that would have been 50 thousand plus in America. *****
is a steal!Jacob ********
@John **********
and that is the #1 reason of deaths too expensiveJacob ********
How many people die for no good reason because they are afraid of going to a doctor because of the costs?
Jack ****************
@Jacob *******
oh I bet a cash customer in the US is well into the 5 digits for 2 broken bones.Rajeev ********
@Jacob *******
just for comparison, last month I was riding my bike, got hit by a car, no broken bones but bruised up bad with laceration on the head. Went to ER in ambulance. 4 hrs later they let me go home. My insurance was billed $42KUlrik *********
@Rajeev *******
find that hard to believe. What insurance company would agree to pay 42k AUD for an ambulance ride and some band aid.Rajeev ********
@Ulrik ********
it happened in Florida and they billed $42K USD. The ER visit included one CT scan, 7 staples in the head, and several bandages. The healthcare here is a racket!Ulrik *********
@Rajeev *******
I misunderstood your reply, my apologies 🙏 I thought your treatment was at a Thai hospital 😆John *********
@Rajeev *******
Shame the car didn't see you coming because the fkg hospital sure did!James *********
@Rajeev *******
Where did this happen? Sounds like the States??Rajeev ********
@James ********
yes, this was in Tampa Bay, floridaJacob ********
@Rajeev *******
YIKES!John *********
@Jacob *******
I have been to hospital 3 times in Thailand. Twice as an in patient. Once with cellulitis (blood poisoning) and once with a non Thai and potentially fatal strain malaria contracted in Africa. Both occasions were 3 nights in general ward in a public hospital, x-rays, medication and 3 meals a day. Both times the bill totalled around 6000 baht. The care was first rate. As was my outpatient service for a neck injury. 300 baht per session. If you want luxury and scented candles expect to pay for it. If you can stand to be looked after like a Thai it's very cheap.Jacob ********
@John ********
I did fine at the Thai hospital I stayed at for two nights. The price for everything was very fair but that was 2015.John *********
@Jacob *******
I hold the Thai medical system in high regard. They cured my wife of fairly advanced cancer with surgery and radiotherapy. I got the diagnostics done privately for speed and then the public hospitals did the rest. Paid only for a private room rather than general ward as it was a traumatic procedure.Ivan ************
@Ja***
this isn't typical, this is if you go to the most expensive private hospital (not even all private hospitals are like this, some are non-profit) and they pad the bill for the insurance company. 325k for a broken ankle is insane and nowhere near normal pricing.Steven *********
@Ivan ***********
I broke my wrist in the late 90's. It cost me only a few thousand baht to reset it and put a cast on it. That price even included the xrays and anethesia. I went to a small Gov. Hosp. in Nakorn Si Thammarat. Things have sure changed a lot since then.Ivan ************
Steven *********
@Ivan ***********
Ok but it has gone up a lot even in the Gov. Hosp. from my experiences over the past 30 years thanks to Prayut. What surgeries are you referring to and how much did they charge if you don't mind my asking?John *********
@Steven ********
Not in government hospitals they haven't. Still a bargain.Reply to
John *********
Reply
Robert ******
@Jacob *******
Yes your right probably more than 3 times that of a ThaiBrent *******
@Jacob *******
yep. They have categories I have been told and the government said it was OK to charge foreigners more. Annoying for those if us that live here and are not tourists. 🤷♂️😔
Christopher ***********
@Brent ******
I live here but have never contributed to Thai National Health Service. I don’t believe it’s correct that Thai taxpayers should subsidize my treatment in Government hospitals.Steven *********
@Christopher **********
I think it is only good business that the Thai Gov. offer similar health care to expats living long term in Thailand. After all we are still consumers that support the economy and some of us contribute millions of baht into the economy including taxes on services and goods.Christopher ***********
@Steven ********
We (same as everyone) are entitled to emergency treatment). It isn’t provided free of course, and we are expected to pay later for it. For those ex-pats who cannot do so and/or need further treatment is it reasonable to expect to receive treatment without the means to pay for it?Steven *********
@Christopher **********
Being entitled and actually receiving what you are supposed to be entitled to are 2 different things. I still hear about hospitals wanting cash up front before even emergency health care is administered. My comment did not say anything about not being able to pay for health care and of course everyone needs to pay for health care but just not in a manner that discriminates and I agree it is not reasonable to expect to receive treatment without paying anything for it.Christopher ***********
@Steven ********
Agree, delaying life saving treatment until money is in the hospital bank account is atrocious. I have heard that hospitals do this due to prior experience of ex-pats lying to their healthcare plan providers who then won’t pay up when previous medical conditions are revealed. Also agree that pricing should be based on the actual cost of the work, time, equipment, expertise and drugs prescribed. Unfortunately, this becomes irrelevant when people are unable to pay having made no provision for accidents or illness.Jody *******
@Christopher **********
Not many Thais pay tax, so that makes zero sense.Christopher ***********
@Jody ******
If I've never paid Thai income tax or Thai national insurance contributions and you say not many Thai's pay it either where does the money come from?Jody *******
@Christopher **********
You've paid various taxes, if you've ever been in Thailand. If...Brent *******
@Christopher **********
agreedI don’t go to Government hospitals. I go to the private ones. Prices are still varied depending on nationality or paying yourself or via insurance. 🤷♂️
Andy ********
@Brent ******
Thats the same the world overReply to
Andy ********
Reply
Dave **********
@Brent ******
the courts upheld hospitals double pricing in a lawsuit. TIT I choose to stay as overall I'm happy here and take the good with the bad.Damo ***********
@Brent ******
why would it be annoying if you were properly insured?Jack ****************
@Damo **********
properly insured is a sheep statement.Reply to
Jack ****************
Reply
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