AIA HB Extra offers beaches, sunshine, and delicious food, Thailand is a popular location for expats and long-term travelers alike. However, healthcare is a significant factor when choosing a location to relocate to and, if you don’t have adequate coverage, medical bills can quickly add up.

Public healthcare in Thailand is accessible to those who have a valid social security card or equivalent. All workers contribute 5% of their salary via social insurance taxes, and this money is used to fund the local healthcare system. This means that citizens can receive free healthcare services in local hospitals. However, this does not include private hospitals or any treatment outside the region. This is why many expats choose to take out private health insurance in Thailand.

Understanding Thailand’s Health Insurance Requirements for Long-Term Visas

Most private insurers in Thailand will not cover pre-existing conditions, and even if they do it is often for a premium that is much higher than the normal rate. As a result, it is important to choose your insurance carefully. Ensure that the providers you are considering offer a lifetime renewal guarantee on their policies, as this can give you peace of mind that your policy will not be canceled at the first sign of illness.

In addition to its high-quality healthcare facilities, Thailand’s booming medical tourism industry has led to cheaper prices for treatments in private hospitals. This makes private insurance in Thailand a more attractive option for those with a limited budget. Additionally, private facilities tend to have shorter waiting times, and many of the staff are multilingual.