Thailand: An Exotic Location for Medical Services
Thailand is at the very top of the list for medical tourism destinations having fully internationalized the many large hospitals in Bangkok and Phuket Island with cutting-edge medical equipment and facilities, internationally schooled and trained medical staff and department expressly catering to its foreign guests in their own languages—English, Japanese and Arabic being the most commonly spoken. The Thai government and private-sector business leaders smartly capitalized on the growing number of tourists arriving to take advantage of high-quality medical care as fractions of the costs compared to those in their home countries. And of course, they also come for the beauty and the cultural richness of the country itself. While British and American citizens have been traveling to various Asian countries to have medical procedures performed, Thailand is far more popular than other Asian countries when it comes to its share in the international market of medical tourism.
Why choose Thailand for travel and treatment?
Thailand is the Land of Smiles that welcomes visitors into a tropical paradise, a country known for its warm weather and beautiful beaches. This welcoming attitude is a key part of Thailand’s standard of patient care. On top of this, the country is continuously updating its medical facilities and talents to stay on top of international medical standards. Whether exploring the breathtaking beaches of Phuket or strolling through the glistening mega shopping malls in Bangkok, travelers will find the cost of daily living is far lower than that of Europe or North America.
Medical Facilities in Thailand
There are nearly 400 hospitals in Thailand, one of which being the largest private hospital in Asia. Bumrungrad International Hospital, Samitivej Hospital, BNH Hospital and the Bangkok Hospital Group are the most frequented large private institutions in Bangkok, and they provide top-quality care, 5-star treatment and departments dedicated to overseas visitors. Bangkok Hospital Group is a network of leading international hospitals found throughout Thailand, and Bangkok Hospital Phuket on Thailand’s most popular southern beach destination is on par with its northern counterparts. An astounding 200 doctors working at Bumrungrad International hospital are U.S. board certified. All private hospitals that cater to medical tourists have English speaking doctors and staff members, and most have Japanese and Arabic language interpreters as well.
Thailand Hospitals and International Standards of Care
Thailand offers an incredible savings on procedures ranging from cosmetic and dental work to complex cardiac procedures. In the U.S. a heart bypass surgery averages around $50,000, while in Thailand the procedure is $21,000, and it is performed with skill and equipment on par with or beyond that of North America and Europe. Hair plant surgery costs about $1,800 in Thailand, while it is $9,600 in the US, which is a savings of more than 80%. Medical procedure costs are at least 20% less than those in the US or UK, and often they are 60% to 80% less. The number of medical tourists choosing Thailand has reached 800,000, and this number continues to grow as steadily as Thailand’s medical industry advances.
Convalescence in Thailand
You will find that post surgery you are very closely monitored and taken care of in Thailand hospitals. Treatment and aftercare rooms are akin to 5-star hotel rooms, and qualified nurses and attendants assure all is going comfortably for you. After a couple of days recuperation, patients can find peace and tranquility in their hotels or choose to stay at the numerous spas and resorts throughout the country, whether beachside or in the lush inland hills.
Thailand Travel Information
Travelers from most Western countries, South Korea and Japan do not need to obtain a visa to enter Thailand. Upon arrival at an airport, they will be granted a 30-day, non-extendable stay in the country. For longer stays, a visa will need to be obtained from a Thai embassy before traveling to the country. Thailand’s currency, the baht, values much lower than the dollar, euro or pound, and thus the cost of living is much lower than in Western countries. Voltage is 220, so North Americans will need a converter and plug adaptor to run appliances from home.
