Health Tourism in Thailand

In this article you will find answers for:

• Medical Tourism in Thailand

• Top Treatments in Thailand

• Dentistry Costs in Thailand

• Safety in Thailand

Why Thailand for Medical Tourism?

Skyrocketing healthcare costs in developed countries, long waiting lists, and an aging world population have all contributed to a worldwide explosion of medical tourism. Thailand is leading Asia as a medical tourism destination and is considered by many to be a global leader. Thailand has a highly-advanced healthcare system, that includes state-of-the-art equipment, modern facilities, and a wealth of doctors with advanced medical degrees and board certifications from the US and Europe. Furthermore, the country is well known for the generous hospitality of its service-minded population, making it even more appealing as a destination. In 2010, more than 89% of medical tourists traveled to Thailand, India, or Singapore, with Bangkok and Singapore leading the pack. However, the cost of treatment and hotel rooms are far more expensive in Singapore than in the Thai capital, making Bangkok the most popular place for medical tourism in the world. 
Now there are more than 66 Thai hospitals, departments, and ambulatory clinics with JCI accreditation, more than any other nation in the region in 2021.

Top Medical Treatments in Thailand

• Cosmetic Surgeries: Every aesthetic procedure in Thailand costs only a small fraction of the cost in the US and UK. Cosmetic surgery in Thailand is a popular option for individuals seeking to enhance their appearance. The country is known for its advanced medical facilities, experienced plastic surgeons, and affordable treatment options. Some of the most common cosmetic surgical procedures performed in Thailand include rhinoplasty, breast augmentation, tummy tuck, and liposuction. The cost of these procedures is generally more affordable compared to other countries. For example, the cost of breast augmentation in Thailand can range from approximately $4,319 to $4,569. These facilities are known for their excellent reputation and world-class results. The success rate of cosmetic surgery in Thailand is generally high due to the expertise of skilled surgeons and advanced medical facilities.
• Dental Procedures: From routine checkups to the most complicated dental surgeries, the costs are comparatively low and the standards are international. Dentistry in Thailand is a popular option for individuals seeking affordable and high-quality dental care. The country offers a wide range of dental treatments, including fillings, root canals, dental implants, and cosmetic dentistry. Dental care in Thailand is generally more affordable compared to other countries, with costs varying depending on the specific treatment and clinic. Dentists in Thailand are often members of the Dental Association of Thailand and are registered and regulated by the Thai Dental Council. Many dentists in Thailand have received training in the US, UK, or Australia, ensuring high-quality dental care.
• Cardiac Procedures: Many hospitals in Thailand offer heart bypass, angioplasty, and heart valve replacement procedures. Cardiology in Thailand is known for its advanced medical facilities, experienced cardiologists, and affordable treatment options. The cost of cardiology treatments in Thailand is generally more affordable compared to other countries. For example, the cost of heart bypass surgery in Thailand starts from around $13,000. However, the cost may vary depending on the specific treatment, hospital, and cardiologist. The success rate of cardiology treatments in Thailand is generally high due to the expertise of skilled cardiologists and advanced medical facilities.
• Orthopedic Surgery: Many orthopedic surgeons in Thailand have been trained overseas and use modern and innovative equipment, including Computer Assisted Surgery (CAS) and Micro-Invasive Surgery (MAS). Common procedures are hip and knee replacements, as well as spine surgeries.
• Fertility Treatment: Common procedures such as IVF, ICSI, IUI, and PGD in Thailand cost significantly less than in most developed countries. Fertility treatment in Thailand is a popular option for individuals seeking assistance in starting a family. The country offers advanced medical facilities, experienced fertility specialists, and affordable treatment options. Some of the popular fertility treatments in Thailand include In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), and donor egg IVF. The cost of IVF treatment in Thailand is generally more affordable compared to other countries, with a single cycle of IVF treatment ranging from 100,000 to 250,000 baht (approximately $3,000 to $7,500). The success rate of IVF in Thailand is around 40-50%, which is similar to the global average, but it can be as high as 60-70% for women under the age of 35 who undergo a single embryo transfer.
• Bariatric Surgery: Bariatric surgery in Thailand is a popular option for individuals seeking weight loss solutions. The country offers a range of advanced medical facilities with highly qualified and experienced bariatric surgeons. Some of the popular bariatric surgery procedures in Thailand include gastric bypass, gastric sleeve, and gastric banding. The cost of bariatric surgery in Thailand is generally more affordable compared to other countries. For example, gastric bypass surgery in Thailand may range from USD 8,000 to 15,000. Some of the top hospitals for bariatric surgery in Thailand include Bangkok Hospital, Samitivej Sukhumvit Hospital, and Bumrungrad International Hospital. The success rates of bariatric surgery in Thailand are generally high due to the expertise of skilled surgeons and advanced medical facilities.
• Ophthalmology: Ophthalmology in Thailand is known for its advanced medical facilities, experienced ophthalmologists, and affordable treatment options. The country offers a wide range of ophthalmology services, including cataract surgery, LASIK, and glaucoma treatment. The cost of ophthalmology treatments in Thailand is generally more affordable compared to other countries. For example, the cost of cataract surgery in Thailand can range from approximately $1,500 to $2,500. However, the cost may vary depending on the specific treatment, hospital, and ophthalmologist. The success rate of ophthalmology treatments in Thailand is generally high due to the expertise of skilled ophthalmologists and advanced medical facilities

Dentistry Prices in Thailand

• All on 4 – $11,200
• All on 6 – $14,000 (one side)
• Single implant with crown – $1,600
• Bone Graft – $460
• Sinus lift – $570
• Porcelain veneers – $350
• Laser whitening – $250

Safety in Thailand

While traveling in Thailand you should exercise caution, especially in tourist areas. You should remain vigilant with regard to your personal security and avoid crowds and demonstrations. 

Scams involving gems, city tours, entertainment venues, and credit cards are common, especially in areas heavily visited by tourists. You should use credit cards only in reputable, established businesses, and you should check the amount you have been charged for accuracy.

If you fall victim to a scam, you should contact the local branch of the Tourist Police or call their toll-free number: 1155.

The Thai police are usually quite trustworthy and reasonable, and often have adequate to good English skills, especially in Bangkok.

Thailand Quick Facts

Capital: Bangkok

Population: 67.01 million (2013 World Bank)

Major infectious diseases: Japanese Encephalitis, Malaria, Dengue, Melioidosis, Water and Soil Diseases (leptospirosis), Sexually Transmitted Diseases, and HIV/AIDS.

Degree of risk: Low-medium risk of terrorism

Passport validity: A passport valid for no less than six months is required.

Vaccinations: Yellow fever may be required if arriving from certain countries with yellow fever. Tetanus, Diphtheria, Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Typhoid, and Hepatitis A are recommended. 

Currency restrictions for entry: Tourists transporting foreign currency of more than USD20,000 or its equivalent, into or out of Thailand must declare the amount to a Customs Officer.

Emergency Telephone Numbers: 

Tourist police (English-speaking operator) 24-hour national call center 1155
Police (General Emergency) 191 or 123
Bangkok tourist assistance Center 02-281-5051
Medical Emergency 1669