Medical Care Provider Advice

[WayneJ]

Hello,

 

I'm new to the group but been a retired expat from NY here in Thailand (Phra Pradaeng) for almost two years.  I'm looking for suggestion on a doctor here.  First year I felt fine then several months ago caught what I think is a nasty head cold.  Coughing, draining and all plugged up.  Been to the hospital as a walkin several times and they unplugged my ears but still not feeling well.  Always had sensitive sinuous but this tropical climate isn't helping- then again maybe its allergies?  

 

Of course my Medicare doesn't cover me here and being a diabetic and 68 makes medical coverage here either not available or ridiculously expensive.  Thinking about heading back to the US for a thorough exam but I'd rather stay here if possible.

 

Any suggestions?  TIA!

[Sheryl]

I suggest you take the BTS into town to see thsis ENT specialist  at St Louis Hospital:

 

Prof. Songklot Aeumjaturapat.

 

He is there Thursdays around 3 - 6 PM and Sundays 8 - 3 PM but call to confirm. You do not need an appointment, it is first come first serve, but need tio register for a patient card first so allow time for that.

 

http://www.saintlouis.or.th/index

 

BTS to Siam then change to the Silom line and get off at Surasak station, hospital is any easy walk from there.

 

It is possible your problems are related to allergy and/or air pollution, a lto of people have this problem in the Bangkok area and sometimes it does nto improve much unless they move to somewhere with cleaner air.

 

While treating this particular problem won't break the bank you are in some serious risk being here uninsured, a really major illness or accident can run to 3-5 million baht at a private hospital and over 1 million even at a government hospital.

 

You do not have to get insurance from a Thai company to be insured here there are many internationally issued expat health policies;  number of these  few will insure at your age. The diabetes though will be an issue and may result in exclusions or higher rates. Suggest you contact AA insurance brokers to explore your options and find out which insurer is likley to handle that pre=existing condition best.

 

If you go back to the US regularly might also consider a travel policy such as IMG's GlobeHopperSenior plan. These are less expensive than regular health insurance but will pay only for urgent care, nothing elective.  https://www.imglobal.com/travel-medical-insurance/globehopper-senior