Full Health Checkup

[Sao Jiang Mai]

I am intending to do a full health checkup somewhere next week. Can anyone recommend the best place to go to? The most thorough would be my requirement, I can deal with lengthly procedures, even prices, but want to find the best possible doctors. Any suggestions or shared experiences would be graet. Cheers.

[PeaceBlondie]

I've always gotten mine done at Maharaj Hospital (Suan Dok), Special Clinic. If you go in the first floor reception near the street, of the 14 story white building that faces Suan Dok gate, ask for the English brochure which gives you three levels of checkup. Even the most expensive one is probably less than 5,000 baht; I've usually paid about half that.

Chiang Mai Ram hospital also does checkups, and I imagine they're more expensive. Either way, you might be checked by medical school professors.

[Loaded]

I've done Suan Dok and can recommend as well.

I've also done Lanna Hospital private section upstairs and can recommend.

Similar prices of 1-2 k Baht depending on the tests required.

[PeaceBlondie]

The checkup I usually get includes xray, ekg, blood and urine tests, any other tests I ask for or that you can get on the higher options, ending with a consult with a good doctor, all on the same day, escorted around the building, with time to break your fast at lunch. I think the top level option includes a stress test.

[earlofwindermere]

My wife and I tried Bumrungrad about 3 months ago. They have a new building and it was absolutely amazing. The price for our package (upper end) was 9000 baht.

Locally, we use Teppanya hospital on Mae Joe Road for basic checks like blood work and EKGs.

[PeaceBlondie]

earl, is that 9000 baht each?

[mcgriffith]

Very timely thread, just decided earlier today I have to do an annual checkup (1 yr overdue).

I'm gonna try Maharaj. Though a patient already at Ram 2 (rabies series, routine immunizations, etc.) I've just read a few too many threads on this forum re: patients being overcharged, etc. I think Ram 2 is an excellent hospital, but I think they are possibly overreaching when it comes to fees, etc. Bumrungrad it is not; but it seems they think they are, and can charge accordingly....

McG

[helitool]

I and my wife went for checkups at the small hospital that used to be called "mother and Child hospital" and is still used for most of the baby deliveries in the area. It is near Kampaengdin rd. and the radio station. We arrived at 9:00 am and had 90% of our results by 11:00. The blood tests for prostate and colon cancer take a week to get the results for. We had a great time talking to the staff and I highly recommend them. My cost for everything imaginable as well as a chest x-ray was about B1700. Did not remember to check their english abilities, but if you don't speak Thai well they probably could round up someone to help you through the process. Friday is the best day to go (nothing to eat OR drink after 12 midnight) night before going in.

[Sojourner]

My vote is for Vejthani Hospital in Bangkok. They have a package for a complete health check-up that draws patients from all over the world. Been in Thailand for eight years and never seen a place quite like this. They have a website that includes a price schedule for all their services. The reason I vote for them is I just spent five days there getting a total knee replacement. Five weeks later I'm walking without assistance and a minimum of discomfort. The knee is already at 125 degrees flex.

[earlofwindermere]

Peaceblondie - yes 9000 each for blood work, x-rays, ekg, stool sample, echocardiograms and ultrasound of abdomen. (Thankfully, my health coverage from my home country pays for one physical per year). While very impressive and perfect English, I'd probably not consider it if I were paying the bill. The lab results look the same at any hospital. My opinion is find a doctor who will take the time to actually read them and then you have a good health check.

Incidently, there is a private office on the superhighway (inbetween Teppanya hospital and Carrefour) where you can get all the tests you want at very reasonable prices (cheaper than I've seen elsewhere). Then, you can take the results to any doctor you want and have them check the results.

[liquido]

Im due for a colonoscopy...Any of the mentioned places recommended???

[Sao Jiang Mai]

Thank you all so very much...though I am in a bigger dither now with all these options. Someone recommended Lanna (has Ram just bought it?) apparently its high quality with reasonable prices. The problem is that one hears horror stories about every place, and each hospital also has its fair share of fans...so, will just go eenie meenie minie moe. Or something.

Thank you.

[mcgriffith]

Just went to Maharaj today, have 0800 appt for full physical tomorrow.

All the hospitals offer a laundry list of options (do you want a PSA test? EKG? Stress EKG? HIV test?) so it is like comparing apples with oranges with pomegranates.

I'm having the "Program J" which pretty much includes all your usual blood work, physical exam with doctor, chest x-ray, etc. No EKG, but includes cancer screening, liver function, PSA, etc... Out the door price is 3900 B -this is an upper level program- they have the basic which I recall was about 1500 B.....

McG

[Due East]

I've been to Lanna and they were friendly and seemed fine. Just make sure you ask them to give you an explanation, analysis -- in English if you need it. Initially they just sent a report with a bunch of numbers (with mostly Thai text), without a clear explanation of what results were normal or abnormal. For bone density, they send you over to Ram because they don't have the equipment.

[earlofwindermere]

Check this out next time you're at Lanna Hospital...

Visit the toilet in the MAIN waiting area. Notice that there are no sinks wash your hands. Pretty disgusting... especially in a hospital setting.

[drbill]

Just stopped by this post and want to say I found it quite informative. Thank you. P.S. For those over 50 just want to add that colonoscopy every 5 -7 yrs, in the right practitioner's hands ,detects early recto-colon ca. with a high sensitivity. The blood testing might not pick up the more advanced stages. Also if one is not symtomatic a screening chest radiograph,although performed in many countries, is likely not needed. If a smoker, a screening chest CT (but at least a 16 multislice unit) is more effective in detecting early disease. Best regards to all and stay healthy, Bill

[lotus eater]

Just went to Maharaj today, have 0800 appt for full physical tomorrow.

All the hospitals offer a laundry list of options (do you want a PSA test? EKG? Stress EKG? HIV test?) so it is like comparing apples with oranges with pomegranates.

I'm having the "Program J" which pretty much includes all your usual blood work, physical exam with doctor, chest x-ray, etc. No EKG, but includes cancer screening, liver function, PSA, etc... Out the door price is 3900 B -this is an upper level program- they have the basic which I recall was about 1500 B.....

McG

Would be interested to know what you managed to discover about the doctors who saw you. Specialists? Was their english up to giving clear explanations? Was there a final and overall written report in english?

Also is there a concessionary pricing for thais? Want to send my girl friend too - of course I will anyway, but since this isn't a private hospital, I wondered.

[PeaceBlondie]

McGriffith opted for a higher priced checkup than I have been getting yearly. The basic checkup starts closer to 2000 baht as I recall. I, too, chose some additional blood tests. When I asked this year, my cardiovascular specialist said he'd take care of it for me, and I trust him. The first 2 or 3 years, I got a nice green booklet (looked like a vehicle registration!) and they entered the new results each year. I can't find my latest results, but I got a printout of my results, in English, each year. All the specialists I've used in over four years at Maharaj speak English fluently for their specialty, even if they don't know the Brooklyn Dodgers from the Houston Oilers.

[mcgriffith]

Yeh, I went for the high octane checkup, 'cause I have a high octane lifestyle....

Truth is, you can do the basic, and you'll be fine. I have an immediate family history of various cancers (colon, prostate, etc.) so I take extra precautions and do additional testing.

The doctor at the end went through all the results in passably fluent English (my Thai is mak mak nit noy) and I had absolutely no problem understanding and communicating whatever. Printout in English, and also the green booklet PB mentioned (in Thai) for repeated visits, so you can compare year to year. Will be going back there next year.

Don't know about discounting for Thai nationals, package deals, etc. Place seems to be a semi-autonomous clinic within Maharaj, which pretty much caters to Thai middle class people (most of whom are insured). Very few farang there, but as I mentioned, with little or no Thai, and all alone, I had no problem whatsoever getting everything done.

Good Luck!

McG

[DirkGently]

I have been thinking about a full service in Bangkok for a while. However, as I am still at an age where things should be fine, I have no idea where to go or what to ask for.

Any recommendations for Bangkok at the lower end of the price range (read as "out of my own pocket").

The only thing I would like to pay special attention to is a liver test. There is, after a hedonistic youth, a chance that it's not perfect.

[ataloss]

My vote is for Vejthani Hospital in Bangkok. They have a package for a complete health check-up that draws patients from all over the world. Been in Thailand for eight years and never seen a place quite like this. They have a website that includes a price schedule for all their services. The reason I vote for them is I just spent five days there getting a total knee replacement. Five weeks later I'm walking without assistance and a minimum of discomfort. The knee is already at 125 degrees flex.

Hi Sojourner,

Would you kindly provide more detail, including price and why you eventuially opted for a 'total knee replacement'.

Not to bore you, but I have been suffering for years with a rugby knee which I sustained in college 40 yrs ago. I had a Meniscectomy' (cutting out the meniscus) at the time. This was prior to arthroscopic meniscectomyasa surgical procedure which cuts out part or all of the knee meniscus via a keyhole and is thus less invasive. They opened one entire side of the knee, and I've endured a dull ache ever since which is now more acute.

Thanks. Oh BTW there is another thread here called:"Knee Problems, Recommendations for an Orthopedic specialist?" and I'd imagine they'd be interested in your reply.

[geriatrickid]

Even though you people are obviously well informed, I'm going to add some stuff about what you should ask for or discuss at the physical for the benefit of the regular folks reading this;

- Discuss the meds that you take, both OTC and prescription. Drugs can have interactions unknown to you and neglected by the prescribing physician, particularly if there are multiple doctors prescribing. As well, they can taint the blood tests.

- If over 50, the Flexible Sigmoidoscopy/Colonoscopy is a must. Don't bother with the new alternative scans because if something turns up, you will still have to undergo the colonoscopy.

- Don't forget to verify cholesterol (HDL & LDL) and triglycerides. These are silent killers and can be managed today.

- The blood work should include the thyroid function check.

- As one poster wisely stated please remember to fast before giving your urine sample and and blood. (it makes a big difference on your results, and don't cheat.)

- Please consider a Hepatitis antibody check. (For B & C) if you have not had one.

- ED: Don't be shy about erectile dysfunction. ED is a symptom of other conditions, particularly heart disease.

- TB Although an Xray can pick up signs, you can request the PPD skin sensitivity test. it's very simple and they just give you a quick jab. 48-72 hrs. you return to see if there was a reaction. In Thailand any bump/swelling over 10mm requires treatment.

- Prostate exam. Ok boys, i know that most people hate this exam, but a PSA test can and often does give incorrect results. The best way to verify is by physical exam which means the magic finger. (Please, empty your bowels before you have this done. Accidents happen otherwise.)

- STI tests For those of you that are sexually active. Please don't be shy in asking for it. Note that the urine tests available are not as accurate as the annoying urethra swab. Please include an annual HIV test if you are not in a monogamous relationship with partner's status known. (And sorry to shock some of you, but HIV infection in Thailand has a significantly heterosexual characterisic . If they take blood for an HIV test (which I prefer over the oral swabs) don't be insulted if they test for syphilis too. It's a duo protocol.

- Don't be embarrassed if you are asked about a fecal ocult blood test. Blood in your poop is a warning sign of other disease and is part of some annual exams.

- If your physician is thorough he will probably feel your testicles for signs of cancer (if you are younger) and if you are older he will poke his hand under your scrotum checking for hernia. Don't freak out when he/she does this.

And now for the ladies, your version of the intrusive prostate exam is the PAP smear. There are 30 forms of HPV that can give rise to genital warts and at least 10 are associated with cervical cancer.

And don't forget to have a bone mass measurement. Loss of bone density is a silent syndrome that creeeps up on women, but is somewhat easy to treat.

-Eye exams by an opthamologist. An eye doctor can pick up alot of underlying conditions such as heart disease or hormone imbalances due to the effect they have on the eye and vision. Glaucoma is a silent condition. Optometrists are not able to make these judgements.

One thing I do ask of anyone having a physical is to please be honest with your attending physician. He/she cannot diagnose properly unless you give all details. make sure the physician takes a proper family history, particularly if there is a history of certain illnesses (e.g. cancer, heart disease) in your family. .

[Sojourner]

Hi Sojourner,

Would you kindly provide more detail, including price and why you eventuially opted for a 'total knee replacement'.

Not to bore you, but I have been suffering for years with a rugby knee which I sustained in college 40 yrs ago. I had a Meniscectomy' (cutting out the meniscus) at the time. This was prior to arthroscopic meniscectomyasa surgical procedure which cuts out part or all of the knee meniscus via a keyhole and is thus less invasive. They opened one entire side of the knee, and I've endured a dull ache ever since which is now more acute.

Thanks. Oh BTW there is another thread here called:"Knee Problems, Recommendations for an Orthopedic specialist?" and I'd imagine they'd be interested in your reply.

Sure, I had meniscus removed over 30 years ago done the old fashioned way, long scar and a warning from the doctor that I would have problems when I got older. I had another scooping in '99 to prevent locking of the knee due to loose pieces floating around.

For the last two years whenever I would walk, or run, the joint pain would kick in within a few hundred meters. Bone on bone. It finally reached a point where I knew something had to be done. Quality of life and all.

Doctor Sudhee was recommended by fellow bikers. He's here in Chiang Mai. He examined me and recommended a TKR. Not the first doctor to do so. He does the work the traditional way without using computer assisted surgery. He suggested a doctor he trained who now works at Vejthani Hospital and uses CAS. The advantage of CAS is the alignment of the prostetic is spot on and will last longer than one that may be 1 of more degrees out.

I opted for Doctor Chumroonkiet at Vejthani Hospital.

It's 8 weeks since the surgery and I'm up to 130 degrees, walking without assistance and no joint pain. My muscles and ligaments are still adjusting to the new knee so ache on occasion. Much better than the old joint pain for sure.

Total "out the door cost" was 375,000 baht. Two years ago I was quoted a price in excess of USD 40,000 for a cash only surgery at Northwestern Univ. Hospital in Chicago. Quite a difference wouldn't you say?

The trick is keeping up with a very agressive rehab program. Don't slack off or you will not see the results you are hoping for.

[lotus eater]

Doctor Sudhee was recommended by fellow bikers. He's here in Chiang Mai.

Hi

Dr Sudhee evidently is a knee specialist. Where in Chiang Mai can he be consulted? My girl friend has a persistent knee problem and I'd like her to see someone who is likely to do a correct diagnosis. She's been to the Maharaj and the price was a fairly hefty sum for a 10 minute consultation with a pricey medecine prescribed. It doesn't give me much confidence and it hasn't helpe3d her much. Unfortunately I'm out of Tailand for now but when I return I'd like to find a decent knee specialist in Chiang Mai.

Would appreciate any practical info.

[ataloss]

Hi Sojourner,

Would you kindly provide more detail, including price and why you eventuially opted for a 'total knee replacement'.

Not to bore you, but I have been suffering for years with a rugby knee which I sustained in college 40 yrs ago. I had a Meniscectomy' (cutting out the meniscus) at the time. This was prior to arthroscopic meniscectomyasa surgical procedure which cuts out part or all of the knee meniscus via a keyhole and is thus less invasive. They opened one entire side of the knee, and I've endured a dull ache ever since which is now more acute.

Thanks. Oh BTW there is another thread here called:"Knee Problems, Recommendations for an Orthopedic specialist?" and I'd imagine they'd be interested in your reply.

Sure, I had meniscus removed over 30 years ago done the old fashioned way, long scar and a warning from the doctor that I would have problems when I got older. I had another scooping in '99 to prevent locking of the knee due to loose pieces floating around.

For the last two years whenever I would walk, or run, the joint pain would kick in within a few hundred meters. Bone on bone. It finally reached a point where I knew something had to be done. Quality of life and all.

Doctor Sudhee was recommended by fellow bikers. He's here in Chiang Mai. He examined me and recommended a TKR. Not the first doctor to do so. He does the work the traditional way without using computer assisted surgery. He suggested a doctor he trained who now works at Vejthani Hospital and uses CAS. The advantage of CAS is the alignment of the prostetic is spot on and will last longer than one that may be 1 of more degrees out.

I opted for Doctor Chumroonkiet at Vejthani Hospital.

It's 8 weeks since the surgery and I'm up to 130 degrees, walking without assistance and no joint pain. My muscles and ligaments are still adjusting to the new knee so ache on occasion. Much better than the old joint pain for sure.

Total "out the door cost" was 375,000 baht. Two years ago I was quoted a price in excess of USD 40,000 for a cash only surgery at Northwestern Univ. Hospital in Chicago. Quite a difference wouldn't you say?

The trick is keeping up with a very agressive rehab program. Don't slack off or you will not see the results you are hoping for.

Thank you very, very much. Very kind of you to reply so cogently. Kindest Regards,

[JuniorExPat]

Even though you people are obviously well informed, I'm going to add some stuff about what you should ask for or discuss at the physical for the benefit of the regular folks reading this;

. . . .

One thing I do ask of anyone having a physical is to please be honest with your attending physician. He/she cannot diagnose properly unless you give all details. make sure the physician takes a proper family history, particularly if there is a history of certain illnesses (e.g. cancer, heart disease) in your family. .

Useful checklist - thank you geriatrickid.

JxP.

[davidgtr]

Doctor Sudhee was recommended by fellow bikers. He's here in Chiang Mai.

Hi

Dr Sudhee evidently is a knee specialist. Where in Chiang Mai can he be consulted? My girl friend has a persistent knee problem and I'd like her to see someone who is likely to do a correct diagnosis. She's been to the Maharaj and the price was a fairly hefty sum for a 10 minute consultation with a pricey medecine prescribed. It doesn't give me much confidence and it hasn't helpe3d her much. Unfortunately I'm out of Tailand for now but when I return I'd like to find a decent knee specialist in Chiang Mai.

Would appreciate any practical info.

DR SUDHEE SUDASNA

38/4 Chiang Mai - Lampang Road. (Diagonally opposite Wat Ched Yot.)

Phone: 053 - 214 139

OPEN 1800 - 1930 hrs

Monday

Tuesday

Thursday

Sunday 0930 - 1130 hrs

CLOSED

Wednesday

Friday

Saturday

Dr Sudhee is a wonderful man & doctor. I’ve been using him for bike accidents & broken bones for 17 years.

He's in his early 60s now, so not so active, but he can provide the best advice & recommendations for docs in Chiang Mai, & elsewhere.

He taught all the ortho surgeons in Chiang Mai & has also treated members of the royal family, so he’s good & highly respected.

I recently broke my humerus head in 5 places falling off my bike (again) in Laos. It took me 2 days to get back to Chiang Mai & see a doctor –Sudhee. However on the Saturday the night before, the pain was too great & at 1.30am I had to go to Ram hospital for a painkilling jab. The duty doc would not do anything until I had an x-ray to confirm it was broken; after which he insisted on the need for an emergency operation. I refused saying that I could wait more 6 more hrs to see Sudhee at his Sunday morning clinic. When I saw Sudhee at his clinic & explained events at Ram he was furious – the doctor was only looking to make fast money David, plus he considered the operation would have been quite dangerous with complications down the road. Sudhee later tracked the Dr down, rang him & gave him a dressing down! Good stuff from a totally sincere ethical man.

6 months later I’m on the mend, riding again, after only having to endure an arm in plaster for 6 weeks, plus regular therapy. Cost minimal.

Now I have to say also that Sudhee’s therapist at the clinic is excellent. If you need any physical therapy try Dr Sudhee’s clinic. I’ve had lots of physio at Ram, but Sudhee’s therapist really is brilliant & knows exactly how to manipulate the muscles & get you moving the right way again.

[lotus eater]

Doctor Sudhee was recommended by fellow bikers. He's here in Chiang Mai.

Hi

Dr Sudhee evidently is a knee specialist. Where in Chiang Mai can he be consulted? My girl friend has a persistent knee problem and I'd like her to see someone who is likely to do a correct diagnosis. She's been to the Maharaj and the price was a fairly hefty sum for a 10 minute consultation with a pricey medecine prescribed. It doesn't give me much confidence and it hasn't helpe3d her much. Unfortunately I'm out of Tailand for now but when I return I'd like to find a decent knee specialist in Chiang Mai.

Would appreciate any practical info.

DR SUDHEE SUDASNA

38/4 Chiang Mai - Lampang Road. (Diagonally opposite Wat Ched Yot.)

Phone: 053 - 214 139

OPEN 1800 - 1930 hrs

Monday

Tuesday

Thursday

Sunday 0930 - 1130 hrs

CLOSED

Wednesday

Friday

Saturday

Dr Sudhee is a wonderful man & doctor. I’ve been using him for bike accidents & broken bones for 17 years.

He's in his early 60s now, so not so active, but he can provide the best advice & recommendations for docs in Chiang Mai, & elsewhere.

He taught all the ortho surgeons in Chiang Mai & has also treated members of the royal family, so he’s good & highly respected.

I recently broke my humerus head in 5 places falling off my bike (again) in Laos. It took me 2 days to get back to Chiang Mai & see a doctor –Sudhee. However on the Saturday the night before, the pain was too great & at 1.30am I had to go to Ram hospital for a painkilling jab. The duty doc would not do anything until I had an x-ray to confirm it was broken; after which he insisted on the need for an emergency operation. I refused saying that I could wait more 6 more hrs to see Sudhee at his Sunday morning clinic. When I saw Sudhee at his clinic & explained events at Ram he was furious – the doctor was only looking to make fast money David, plus he considered the operation would have been quite dangerous with complications down the road. Sudhee later tracked the Dr down, rang him & gave him a dressing down! Good stuff from a totally sincere ethical man.

6 months later I’m on the mend, riding again, after only having to endure an arm in plaster for 6 weeks, plus regular therapy. Cost minimal.

Now I have to say also that Sudhee’s therapist at the clinic is excellent. If you need any physical therapy try Dr Sudhee’s clinic. I’ve had lots of physio at Ram, but Sudhee’s therapist really is brilliant & knows exactly how to manipulate the muscles & get you moving the right way again.

Based on your strong recommendation I will have her to consult Dr Sudhee. I'm especially pleased to know that he knows well the whole network of specialists in Ciang Mai so he will refer her to others if need be.

One post in another current thread said Sudhee is not himself a knee specialist as such - but even if that were so he seems to be the right place to start.

Thanks for the practical info. I'll be taking it up in September when I get back to Chiang Mai.