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Hey guys, my wooden wall mounted clock with weights has stopped ticking. I was quoted 2500 baht and 14 days. Does anyone know a cheap and reliable repairer around the Phra khanong area? Any help would be much appreciated. regards

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The Phuket diarrhea outbreak made the news earlier this month, affecting over 70 students and residents across the island. While public health officials have yet to determine the cause, contaminated drinking water and ice from local factories could be to blame. A similar incident occurred in December 2022, where the norovirus caused over 700 locals and tourists in Chanthaburi to experience severe diarrhea and other uncomfortable symptoms. Whether the reason for the mass diarrhea cases is the norovirus, contaminated local water supply, or something else, there’s no better time than now to discuss dodging diarrhea in Thailand. Many travelers in Thailand become afflicted with what is known as “Bangkok Belly”, though expats and locals also experience it from time to time. With that said, our friends from Pacific Prime Thailand are here to share what causes diarrhea in Thailand, diarrhea symptoms, and how to avoid it with their 5 top tips. What causes traveler’s diarrhea in Thailand? Commonly known as Bangkok Belly and traveler’s diarrhea, this type of digestive tract disorder is caused by ingesting food or water that has been contaminated with organisms originating from feces. Typically, these organisms are bacteria like E.Coli, although other parasites and viruses can also be responsible. For travelers, in particular, the combination of stress, jet lag, and dietary changes creates an ideal foundation for Bangkok Belly to form. Bangkok Belly symptoms The main symptom of traveler’s diarrhea in Thailand is loose stools, which generally occur with a rapid onset of multiple stools per day. Likewise, those affected with traveler's diarrhea will experience sudden urges to use the toilet throughout the day. Other symptoms that occur alongside diarrhea include: ● Nausea ● Vomiting ● Abdominal pains (e.g. cramps) ● Headaches ● Fevers How to avoid Bangkok Belly Your best bet to reduce the chances of traveler’s diarrhea is to be careful with what you put into your body while traveling. Sadly, being cautious with what you eat and drink can make your time in Thailand slightly less adventurous since it’s advisable to steer clear of street food carts due to their (often) poor sanitization standards. If you’re not convinced, just take a look at the next street food cart you’re interested in and look whether they have running water available. Without that, one can’t help but wonder how their clean their hands and food-preparing surfaces. It’s also advisable to avoid raw and undercooked foods (especially those that spoil quickly), such as seafood, fruits, and vegetables, and opt for trusted restaurants that cook food to order instead. 5 tips to manage diarrhea in Thailand When diarrhea strikes, it’s helpful to know how to manage it. The following tips can help reduce your symptoms and have you feeling better in no time. Stay hydrated: Dehydration is common with diarrhea, so be sure to drink lots of bottled or boiled water. Electrolyte drinks and other rehydration solutions can also help replenish lost electrolytes and fluids. Be cautious with your food and beverage choices: Thai food is certainly delightful, but it pays to be selective. As mentioned, avoid unhygienic street food and undercooked food, as well as tap water, ice cubes, and unpasteurized dairy products. Also, stick to easily digestible, bland foods like the BRAT diet while recovering. Practice good hygiene: Avoid spreading infectious organisms by washing your hands with soap and clean water thoroughly and regularly, especially before eating or touching food. These days, alcohol-based hand sanitizers can be a convenient substitute. Use over-the-counter remedies: Anti-diarrheal capsules like Imodium are an effective over-the-counter treatment for traveler’s diarrhea. In Thailand, the generic Loperamide (the active ingredient in Imodium) is more affordable and just as effective. Get plenty of rest: It’s important to rest and give your body time to heal when you’re experiencing diarrhea. Strenuous activities can worsen your symptoms. Note that it’s important to consult a medical professional if you experience severe symptoms or if symptoms persist for over a couple of days. That way, you can receive a proper diagnosis and get recommendations for traveler’s diarrhea treatment. The reality is that incidences of diarrhea may occur during your time in Thailand. By taking necessary precautions, being cautious with your food and drink choices, and following treatment protocols when it does strike, you can reduce the impact of diarrhea and continue to enjoy what the Land of Smiles has to offer. Planning a trip to Thailand? Don’t forget to secure private medical insurance in Thailand that will cover you while you’re in the area. The last thing you want is to worry about whether you can afford the treatment you need. With over 20+ years of industry experience, Pacific Prime Thailand is a leading health insurance brokerage that expats and travelers can rely on. Contact them today!

Royal Wing Suites & Spa today announced it has been recognized by Tripadvisor as a 2023 Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best award winner in the luxury and top resort category. The luxury boutique resort maintains the top rank position on the popular travel site. The awards honor travelers' favorite destinations, hotels, restaurants, things to do, and beyond, based on the reviews and opinions collected from travelers and diners around the world on Tripadvisor over a 12-month period. Best of the Best award winners are among the top 1% of listings on Tripadvisor, distinguishing them as travelers’ favorites for 2023. “Congratulations to the 2023 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best winners,” said John Boris, Chief Growth Officer at Tripadvisor. “The travel resurgence we’ve seen throughout the past year has even further heightened the competition. Ranking among the Best of the Best demonstrates that you have provided exemplary experiences to those who matter most: your guests. With changing expectations, continued labor shortages, and rising costs, this is no easy feat, and I am continually impressed with the hospitality industry’s resilience and ability to adapt. Cheers to another successful year!” The Travelers' Choice Best of the Best Award is the highest honor TripAdvisor can give. Royal Wing Suites and Spa prides itself in providing hospitality excellence and exceeding its guests’ expectations. The property’s positive reviews are testament to its unparalleled services and wide-ranging facilities that cater to all guests’ specific needs. Check out all the reviews, and discover more about Royal Wing Suites & Spa, please visit https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g293919-d307270-Reviews-Royal_Wing_Suites_Spa-Pattaya_Chonburi_Province.html Thailand and specifically Pattaya is one of the most sought after travel destinations for tourists. Staying in the right award-winning hotel can guarantee a luxurious experience that goes above and beyond the norm. The Royal Cliff Hotels Group operates 4 luxury hotels providing tourists from home and abroad with the ultimate experience. Its superior service has been paramount to this latest achievement that marks an excellent start for the group this year. Royal Cliff Hotels Group has impressively won over 280 national and international awards to date. This is the ideal luxury destination to discover everything you need for an exceptional holiday. Book your stay directly with Royal Cliff and get the best price guaranteed together with value-added optional extras for an enhanced hotel experience you deserve by visiting www.royalcliff.com, contacting Reservations at (+66) 38 250 421 ext: 2732 or emailing [email protected]. For more information on the Royal Wing Suites and Spa, please www.royalwingsuites.com. Photo Caption: Mr. Vitanart Vathanakul, CEO of Royal Cliff Hotels Group (2nd left) together with Mr. Thibault Sellier, Resident Manager of Royal Wing Suites and Spa (right), Natrada Pongpaew, Deputy Resident manager (2nd right) and Ms. Vankamon Athikomkulchai, Marketing and PR Manager Royal Cliff Hotels Group and PEACH (left) with the 2023 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Certificate awarded to the Royal Wing Suites and Spa. Photo Caption: The epitome of luxury, the exclusive all-suite Royal Wing Suites & Spa is widely acknowledged as one of the world's finest hotels. Highly personalized service and attention to detail, the hotel offers guests the exclusive use of the picturesque, free-form Royal Wing Pool and are served by the famous Pool Butlers along with multiple perks.

Time zones play a crucial role in the world of international finance, impacting the smooth flow of money across borders. Here are some ways in which time zones can affect these transactions. • Processing Times : Banks have specific processing hours based on time zones. Transfers initiated outside these hours may be processed on the next business day. • Cut-off Times : International money transfers may be delayed until the next business day if initiated close to a bank's cut-off time. • Exchange Rate Fluctuations : The fx market operates 24/7 across time zones, causing exchange rates to fluctuate. International transfer's rate may vary based on its processing time. • Weekends and Holidays : If a transfer is initiated on a weekend or public holiday in either the sender's or recipient's country, the transaction may not be processed until the next business day. To minimise potential issues, it's advisable to plan your international money transfers in advance! https://www.deemoney.com/

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Imagine working on the white-sandy beaches of Thailand while sipping on fresh coconut water, isn't that a dream come true? Well, what if we told you, you could do it - thanks to Thailand’s Long Term Resident (LTR) Visa, you can legally live and work in the country for your remote job. However, like all visas, the LTR visa comes with its terms and conditions. In this article, our friends at Pacific Prime Thailand have gathered all the information you need about the LTR visa: What is Thailand’s LTR visa? One of Thailand’s new visas, the LTR visa was introduced to promote tourism and push more expats to work in Thailand. The visa offers a wide range of benefits such as a 10-year renewable visa, exemption from the “4 Thais to 1 foreigner” employment requirement ratio rule, fast-track privileges at Thailand’s international airports, and more. Here are the five different types of LTR visas: ● Wealthy Global Citizens ● Wealthy Pensioners ● Work-from-Thailand ● Highly-Skilled-Professionals ● Spouses and dependents What are the requirements for a work-from-Thailand LTR visa? If you work for an international company and can prove a steady income, you can move to Thailand and work remotely on some of its beautiful islands. Undoubtedly Thailand is one of the best Sout-East-Asian countries for expats and digital nomads, given its vibrant culture, friendly locals, and delicious cuisine. In order for you to get approved for the work-from-Thailand visa, you need to meet the following requirements: ● Must have an annual income of a minimum of USD $80,000 for the last two years. ● Persons with USD $40,000 per year for the last two years must have a Master’s degree or above and own intellectual property or receive series A funding. ● The company of your employment should be a public company, or private company with operations longer than 3 years with a revenue of USD $150 million in the past three years. ● Health insurance with minimum coverage of USD $50,000 or social security benefits insuring treatment in Thailand or a deposit of at least USD $100,000. Is it legal to work in Thailand without a valid work visa? Note that it is illegal to work in the Land of Smiles without a work visa. Hence, you will need to apply for a work visa to live and work in Thailand. You can apply for an LTR visa during your visit to Thailand. Note that, most Western countries' citizens are allowed to stay in the country for 30 days on an on-arrival visa. Note: you are allowed to work temporarily in Thailand, while your work permit is still in process. Planning to move to Thailand as a remote worker? While working in Thailand has its perks, it’s a good idea for you to get familiar with the country’s tax regulations and employment laws. This way, you can avoid any unexpected tax obligations and enjoy your life in Thailand hassle-free. Generally speaking, expats need a work permit to legally work in Thailand, but work-from-Thailand or Long Term Visa applicants can easily get a digital work permit from their employer (for a processing fee of THB ฿3,000 per year). Moreover, if you are moving with your spouse, you can apply for a long-term resident visa, and your spouse can then apply for a work permit. Note that your spouse can work any job that is not reserved for Thai nationals. Working as a digital nomad in Thailand? Secure your health with Pacific Prime today! While healthcare in Thailand is very efficient, you will be surprised to know that private facilities are very different than public ones. Firstly, private hospitals, especially those that cater to medical tourists, can be incredibly expensive, and the cost of treatment can quickly add up. Secondly, public hospitals may not be a feasible option for most foreigners as they often have a dual-pricing system that discriminates between locals and foreigners. Moreover, you could also face language barriers at public hospitals, which can be a nightmare. If you're working remotely in Thailand, you may not be entitled to employer-sponsored health insurance, which can be a concern. But lucky for you health insurance brokers like Pacific Prime Thailand can help you navigate through your options and select the most appropriate plan. Their friendly and knowledgeable advisors can help you find the right international insurance coverage for digital nomads or even travel insurance that covers COVID-19. Get in touch today for a FREE quote!

Good Football Development comes with Good Training and Good Facilities! Dynamic Football Academy (International Program) is now recruiting players, 8-18 years old. The sessions will be conducted in English by qualified coaches and we look to provide a fun, positive, safe environment for players to learn and develop. Starts July: 17.00-18.30 pm Location: Dynamic Football Camp (Bang Bo) https://maps.app.goo.gl/qh4bVJFBWTUtQLvG7 Register for two sessions free trial: https://forms.gle/Szp3jR2P4zWYm1AC7 For more information feel free to contact: 0614392895

Are you looking for a unique venue that transforms from a refined Gentleman's lounge during the day to a vibrant AGOGO bar at night? Look no further than our exceptional establishment that brings you the best of both worlds: EDEN and ESCAPE. Be Tempted by EDEN - Unwind in Style (11am - 8pm) Step into the world of EDEN, our exclusive Gentleman's lounge designed to provide an oasis of comfort and sophistication. From 11am until 8pm, indulge in an unrivalled experience where every detail has been meticulously crafted to cater to your refined tastes. Nestled within our inviting space, EDEN offers an air-conditioned haven where you can relax and savour your favourite beverages. Whether you prefer a smooth whiskey, a perfectly crafted cocktail, or a chilled beer, our attentive staff are ready to serve you with a smile. Immerse yourself in conversations with our gracious hostess ladies, who are dedicated to ensuring your time at EDEN is nothing short of exceptional. Enjoy music and videos on our massive screens or have a game of pool with friends or our willing hostess ladies, be careful though, they are getting better every day! Our friendly manager is on hand to answer any questions you may have or just engage in friendly conversation. He might even offer you one of our free in-house “Forbidden Apple” shots. If you wish for a more private experience, we offer curtained VIP areas for a small fee where you can enjoy the company of our hostess ladies in a more intimate setting. Just ask one of our hostess ladies or the manager for more information. Escape to ESCAPE - Unleash the Night (8pm onwards) As the evening unfolds, a thrilling transformation takes place as ESCAPE emerges from the depths of the night. At 8pm, witness a spectacle as a stage gracefully descends from the ceiling, setting the scene for a captivating performance that will ignite your senses. Welcome to ESCAPE, our sensational AGOGO bar that captures the essence of nightlife excitement. Prepare to be enthralled as our stunning and talented ladies take to the stage, captivating your attention with their electrifying performances. The vibrant atmosphere, pulsating beats, and state-of-the-art FUNKTION-ONE club sound system will transport you to a world where entertainment knows no bounds. Feel free to buy any of our performers a “Lady Drink” and she will cease her performance and come over to sit with you and engage in friendly conversation over a drink. Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of ESCAPE as you enjoy the show on stage and surrender to the allure of the night. Our skilled DJs curate an electrifying playlist, ensuring that every beat resonates through your soul, keeping you on your feet and moving to the rhythm of the night. Join us and experience the seamless transition from the refined ambiance of EDEN to the pulsating energy of ESCAPE. Indulge in a day and night journey like no other, where your desires are met, and unforgettable memories are made. Visit us today at Tree Town and let EDEN and ESCAPE captivate you with their distinct offerings. For more information, promotions, and updates, follow us on Facebook (below). We look forward to welcoming you to an extraordinary experience you won't soon forget. https://facebook.com/escapeclubeden https://facebook.com/escapepattaya

Pattaya, Thailand – Royal Cliff Hotels Group is excited to announce its upcoming Junior Tennis Tournament, to be held on 3 – 4 June 2023 at Fitz Club, the luxury sports club of the hotel. The tournament is open to all young tennis players in the community, and we invite parents to join and support their children in this fun and competitive event. Our Junior Tennis Tournament is a great opportunity for young players to showcase their skills and compete against their peers in a supportive and friendly environment. Crucially, this tournament holds certification from the Lawn Tennis Association of Thailand, enabling players to earn points for their Thailand ranking and standing. We believe that tennis is a sport that promotes discipline, teamwork, and healthy competition, and we encourage parents to encourage their children to participate and reap the benefits of this exciting sport. The tournament will feature singles and doubles, and we welcome players of all levels to participate. Children from the ages of 4 – 10 years old will compete in the Tennis-10 format. For children above 10 years old will follow the ITF rules. Beside the competitive matches, the tournament offers a range of fun activities and social events to keep the players and their families entertained throughout the weekend. There will be live food stations to serve food, drinks, fruits, ice creams and other refreshments to everyone. There is also a kid’s corner with games and prizes. Medical officers and support services will be on hand for the players throughout the tournament. "We are thrilled to host this tournament and provide a fun and competitive platform for young tennis players to showcase their skills," said Vitanart Vathanakul, CEO of Royal Cliff Hotels Group "Our goal is to make Pattaya a leading sports destination and to welcome children from across the globe." Registration for the tournament is now open, and interested parents and players can sign up at www.royalcliff.com/aswj. Special room rates are offered to all tournament entrants and booking can be made on the website or by contacting us at 038-250421 ext. 2820-24 or [email protected]. We encourage everyone to sign up early to secure their spot in the tournament and avoid disappointment. We would like to give our special appreciation to our wonderful sponsors, AssetWise and Tecnifibre. We are thankful of their generous contribution in making a positive impact to children and supporting Pattaya to be a leading sports destination. For more information, please contact Fitz Club team at [email protected]. We have planned a fun filled weekend for the families.

Health insurance for foreigners in Thailand is crucial, especially when you have pre-existing conditions. That’s why you should secure the best pre-existing insurance in Thailand that offers comprehensive coverage and caters specifically to the needs of foreigners. Price plays a major part when buying insurance, and we recommend that you explore your options for the cheapest pre-existing insurance in Thailand. For expats currently residing in Thailand, identifying the best health insurance plan, whether it’s for you, or your family, is essential to covering your medical costs and your peace of mind. Navigating healthcare and insurance can be confusing, especially with pre-existing illnesses. Understanding coverage for such conditions is crucial in foreign countries like Thailand, which offer various hospitals and insurance options. Buying health insurance while healthy is ideal for protection against unexpected illnesses. However, most Thai firms typically do not cover serious pre-existing diseases. What should you know about pre-existing conditions and insurance in Thailand? Our friends at Pacific Prime Thailand will go through the details so you will be more informed about the topic. What You Need to Know About Pre-Existing Conditions in Thailand If you've recovered from a past health problem, insurance companies will require medical exams or proof that you are fully healed. Unfortunately, pre-existing conditions are common, especially among individuals over 50. Despite their prevalence, insurance companies often reject candidates with these conditions. 1 - A Higher Price Tag For a higher cost, some health insurance providers might cover a pre-existing medical condition, but it comes in at a higher price tag. Only a limited range of pre-existing conditions are normally covered by premium loading options. 2 - Moratorium Sometimes known as a waiting period, it is a set amount of time that the policyholder must wait before they receive coverage for their insurance plan. In Thailand, health insurance companies can place a moratorium on a customer's insurance application if they have a pre-existing condition. This can be up to 2 years, but it's recommended to ask them for specifics. If a policyholder has received treatment for their pre-existing condition during the moratorium period and it’s likely not to come back, the insurance provider may choose to include cover for it when the policy is renewed in the following year. 3 - Exclusion Anyone with a pre-existing condition is usually excluded from cover by a Thai insurance provider. The condition itself, along with any related health conditions, will also not be covered. However, if you're healthy when you apply for insurance but somewhere down the line, you have developed medical or health issues, you will still be covered. Know What to Look For When Selecting Health Insurance 1 - Price Finding the ideal balance between price and policy benefits is a must when looking for the best-value insurance plan. Usually, Thailand's cheapest pre-existing insurance plans are not the ones with the best overall coverage. 2 - Insurance Billing Methods Consider choosing a plan with direct billing if you want the fastest possible insurance billing service. With this service, hospitals that are a part of the direct billing system will deal directly with the insurer to pay your claim. 3 - Worldwide Portability As an expat, you might return to your native country or live somewhere else in the future. This makes securing international health insurance all the more important since you can be sure that your coverage will follow you wherever you go. 4 - Renewability Sometimes health insurance plans often include a "mutual agreement" renewal clause, which gives insurance companies the option to withdraw from renewing your coverage when you have expensive claims or pre-existing conditions that have appeared during the course of your contract. 5 - Insurer Reputation The reputation of the insurance company should be taken into account, especially when it comes to problems like an increase in premium prices in the past, renewal negotiations, claim support, and customer service. About Pacific Prime As a reputable health insurance broker with over 20 years of industry experience, Pacific Prime’s expert advisors have the knowledge and expertise to help you compare health insurance quotes and find the ideal fit for your needs and budget. Contact Pacific Prime Thailand for unbiased insurance advice and a free quote today.

Congrats on your first job! Here are some tips for your career journey. • Be prepared: Research the company and job before starting to better prepare for the role. • Be punctual: Arrive on time to show professionalism and respect for colleagues' time. • Build relationships: Strengthen connections with colleagues to feel more comfortable at work. • Learn as much as possible: Maximise learning opportunities in your first job by seeking guidance from colleagues and asking questions. • Prioritise self-care: Make time for hobbies, exercise, and relaxation to stay energised and focused at work. Remember that your first job is just the beginning of your career. Use this opportunity to learn, grow, and build a strong foundation for your future success. ✨ https://www.deemoney.com/

The future of cannabis in Thailand is at a crucial juncture as the government prepares to revisit the legal status of the plant next month. A groundswell of public support has rallied behind a petition aimed at maintaining the current legal status of cannabis as a medicinal and economic resource. The petition, organized by the Phuket Cannabis Association (PCA), has already gathered over 2,000 signatures within 24 hours from Thai citizens, businesses, farms, expats, and tourists. If you believe in the economic, health, and social benefits that cannabis has brought to Thailand since its decriminalization, sign the petition here. Time is of the essence as we have until May 31st to show our collective support. It takes less than two minutes to add your voice to this pivotal cause. The letter of intent attached to the petition emphasizes the importance of maintaining cannabis’ status as an herbal plant under the Herbal Plant Control Act, A.D. 2019 (B.E. 2562). It argues that moving it back to a narcotic drug status would infringe on the rights of Thai citizens. The intent letter also underlines the international trend of recognizing cannabis’ beneficial properties and asserts the need to regulate it through law rather than outright prohibition. Cannabis has a long history in Thailand, from its widespread use in culinary traditions and traditional medicine to its application in textile manufacturing. However, influenced by international pressure, the Cannabis Act of 1935 criminalized cannabis for the first time in Thailand’s history. This changed in 2022 when the Thai government decriminalized cannabis, following a global trend towards more liberal cannabis laws. This move has spurred a significant economic boom, with over 1.1 million Thai citizens registering to grow cannabis and more than 4,600 cannabis-related businesses opening their doors. Decriminalization has also eased the burden on the justice system, destigmatized cannabis use, and opened the path for more research into its medicinal properties. With the government’s reevaluation of cannabis regulations on the horizon, the Phuket Cannabis Association has been working tirelessly to ensure the continued decriminalization of cannabis. Their work has been instrumental in fostering a sustainable development within the Thai cannabis industry, but they can’t do it alone. The PCA and the countless individuals and businesses who’ve benefited from decriminalization need your support. Sign the petition here before May 31st to ensure your voice is heard. Remember, it only takes two minutes to make a difference.

Thailand is a country that captures the hearts and imaginations of travelers from around the world. One of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia, Thailand offers beautiful beaches, colorful cultures, historical landmarks, and delicious cuisines. Whether visitors seek adventure, relaxation, cultural immersion, or entertainment, the Land of Smiles offers a unique experience that keeps them coming back for more. In recent times, Thailand has also become a hotspot for expats and digital nomads. With an affordable cost of living, a pleasant climate with lots of sunshine, and a fast-growing expat community, Thailand offers ample opportunities for remote work and entrepreneurship. What’s more, the excellent infrastructure, reliable internet connectivity, co-working spaces and modern amenities make Thailand an ideal destination for digital nomads. While there are many highlights to living in Thailand as an expat, the country's public healthcare system is not one of them. For a number of reasons, private healthcare is far and away the best option for expats and digital nomads in Thailand. Our friends at Pacific Prime Thailand have shared their insights with us in this article. What are the issues with Thailand’s public healthcare system for expats? Thailand’s public healthcare is not awful, as a matter of fact, the country ranks high in global health security. However, it is not a good choice for expats for the following reasons: 1. Inadequate resources Due to inadequate funding, Thailand's public healthcare system grapples with a shortage of hospital beds, medical equipment, and crucial medications. Scarce healthcare professionals result in extended wait times and below-par care. Besides, medical resources are frequently imbalanced, with rural areas receiving fewer resources than their urban counterparts. 2. Long wait times Patients may have to wait in lines for hours to receive medical attention in public hospitals, and wait times for specialist appointments can be several months long. This problem is not limited to hospitals but can also be observed at primary healthcare clinics. 3. Language barriers Foreign patients often face challenges in navigating the healthcare system and communicating with their healthcare providers due to the limited English proficiency of many healthcare professionals. This is especially problematic in emergency situations where prompt and effective communication is critical. Moreover, expats may struggle with comprehending medication instructions, treatment plans, and follow-up appointments, which can result in noncompliance. While some public healthcare facilities have begun to offer translation services for expats, there is no guarantee of their availability. 4. Inconsistent quality Thailand's public healthcare system experiences a significant discrepancy in the quality of care provided by hospitals and clinics, with some delivering substandard care. This is primarily due to the uneven allocation of resources, especially in rural areas where a scarcity of healthcare professionals and specialized medical equipment is not uncommon. Besides, the inconsistency in the quality of care can be linked to the diverse levels of experience and training among healthcare professionals. 5. Lack of privacy Private rooms are scarce in public hospitals, and patients may have to share rooms with several other patients, compromising privacy and comfort. Cultural attitudes in Thailand may also contribute to the lack of privacy in public healthcare settings. In Thai culture, expressing personal details and medical issues openly is not as taboo as it may be in some other cultures. 6. Limited coverage Thailand's public healthcare system may not cover all necessary medical procedures or treatments, leaving patients to pay out of pocket for expensive healthcare services. Mental health is one area where limited coverage presents a significant challenge. There is a lack of resources and personnel to provide mental health services in the public healthcare system, with only limited facilities located in urban areas. 7. Lack of follow-up care With limited capacity to provide it, patients may not receive adequate follow-up care after receiving treatment in public hospitals, leading to incomplete recovery or the possibility of recurring health issues. Moreover, the experience and qualifications of healthcare professionals at public healthcare facilities are not always sufficient to provide the necessary follow-up care. Benefits of having a private health plan Many expats in Thailand have private health coverage, even if their employer provides cover. The main reasons for their choice include: 1. Wider range of choices Private health insurance allows expats to choose from a wider range of hospitals, clinics, doctors, and medical treatments compared to Thailand's public healthcare system. What’s more, private health insurance offers expats access to a range of supplementary services, including health screenings, immunizations, and dental care. Private health insurance also covers medical evacuation services, which expats may require in the event of an emergency. 2. Higher quality of care Private healthcare facilities in Thailand generally have more resources and access to modern medical equipment than public healthcare facilities. Private healthcare providers also place a greater emphasis on patient comfort and satisfaction than their public counterparts. 3. Shorter wait times Private hospitals and clinics typically have shorter wait times for appointments, tests, and treatments, enabling expats to receive medical attention quickly. Needless to say, this can be the difference between life and death in some circumstances. 4. English-speaking staff Private hospitals and clinics generally have English-speaking staff, ensuring expats can communicate their symptoms and medical history effectively. English-speaking staff can also better understand the cultural norms or customs impacting expats, which can help to tailor the medical care provided effectively. This can provide expats with increased comfort and confidence in their medical treatment, which is crucial when seeking medical care in a foreign country. 5. Comprehensive coverage Private health insurance plans often provide comprehensive coverage, including emergency care, hospitalization, outpatient treatments, and prescription medications. Another benefit of private health insurance is the availability of 24/7 assistance for medical emergencies. Private health insurance providers often offer round the clock support, including emergency assistance services, ensuring that expats can access medical care at any time of the day or night. 6. Access to specialist care Private health insurance plans usually offer coverage for specialist consultations, which may cover cardiology, neurology, ophthalmology, and other specialities. Apart from specialist consultations, private health insurance plans may also cover surgical procedures that require specialized care, such as experimental treatments, including immunotherapy for cancer treatments or uncommon surgeries. What’s more, private health insurance providers frequently collaborate with distinguished specialized clinics and hospitals, giving policyholders access to exceptional medical technologies that may not be accessible in public hospitals. Looking for private health coverage in Thailand? If you are an expat in Thailand looking to secure or review your health insurance, you need to look no further, because Pacific Prime Thailand is here to help! With 20+ years of experience under its belt, Pacific Prime is well-positioned to provide unbiased advice and unsurpassed support that only a leading global insurance brokerage can. You and your family will be presented with the best options that also fit your budget, which you can secure at no extra cost! So, get in touch with Pacific Prime Thailand to discuss your needs or for a FREE plan comparison today!