@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.

@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.

@Robert *****

If you're English you're definitely a gammon.

@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.

Did it for two years 3 on 3 off. Only once was I asked and told them my work schedule. No problem.

@Jeffrey ***********

Another farang inanity.

@Dale **********

?

@Gordon *******

Aha!

In Chiang Kham myself for 6 years. I speak well enough to get about and like you only deal with local people. Lots are extended family. Small enough town but big enough. Everyone seems content with how the system works. I'm happy being the daft Farang who gets on with everyone nearly all the time. Long may it continue. Good luck with the move.

@Jack ***************

Seems like people get very different impressions of Thailand depending where they live. I'm in semi-rural Northern province and couldn't imagine a more chilled out place to live. Where are you if you don't mind me asking?