Best health insurance quotes in Thailand

Thai healthcare is accessible to both citizens and working legal residents through the following schemes: social security, civil servant medical benefits, social health insurance, and the Universal Coverage Scheme (UCS).

Those not entitled to public healthcare in Thailand require private health insurance. This includes expats moving to Thailand without the intention to work, as they do not pay into the social security system (ระบบประกันสังคม) and, therefore, cannot access universal public healthcare.

Private insurers set premiums based on age, lifestyle, and health. Some may exclude pre-existing conditions or charge higher premiums for them. Ensure you understand any exclusions and how existing health issues will impact costs.

Typically, your public and private health insurance will also cover your spouse or partner and children, but it is best to clarify the exact terms with your policy provider.

Health insurance gaps in Thailand can occur if you move there without private insurance or if your costs exceed public insurance limits, often resulting in out-of-pocket payments.

Thailand’s public health insurance does not cover medical expenses incurred abroad; it only covers services within the country. Therefore, you should buy travel insurance with medical coverage before traveling overseas. Travel insurance often includes medical expenses and emergency evacuations and may cover pre-existing conditions if declared and accepted.

If you have public health insurance in Thailand, the good news is this covers most of your healthcare costs without the need to pay anything out of pocket. The exception is if you use services on a Saturday, where small charges apply. However, it’s essential to check your policy to find out if you need to make additional co-payments. Although the universal coverage scheme covers much of Thailand’s healthcare needs, it doesn’t cover everything. For example, extensive dental surgery is omitted. Private insurance can ensure that all your health needs are met.

Private sector workers paying into the country’s social health insurance scheme contribute 1.5% of their monthly salary towards insurance costs, up to a maximum of ฿750 a month. These payments are automatic deductions from employee wages, so workers don’t have to worry about making any manual payments. In return, they get mostly free public healthcare and will only need to pay upfront for any additional fees.

Expats with private insurance should review their policy for premium payments, claims, renewals, and cancellations. Insurers typically cover large bills directly, while smaller fees may require upfront payment and subsequent reimbursement.