Is private health insurance worth it for a long-term stay in Thailand?

[Sales Team]

 

Thailand has long been a top destination for expats and digital nomads seeking a high quality of life, with its affordable living costs. While the country offers both public and private healthcare options, many expats opt for private health insurance for peace of mind, better care, and flexibility, especially for those planning to stay long-term.

Understanding the healthcare system in Thailand

Thailand boasts a strong healthcare system, combining public and private options. While the public healthcare system offers affordable care, expats often face a few notable challenges, which include:

• Limited choice of hospitals: Access is often restricted to specific public hospitals assigned by employers.

• Long wait times: Public hospitals can be overcrowded, which results in extended wait times for appointments, treatments, and surgeries.

• Language barriers: In smaller cities or rural areas, finding English-speaking staff can be difficult, leading to communication challenges.

• Out-of-pocket costs for non-working expats: Retirees and non-working expats are often required to pay for public healthcare services themselves.

While public healthcare is inexpensive, it does not provide the flexibility, convenience, or personal care that private healthcare offers. That’s where private health insurance steps in.

The long-term cost of private health insurance

For expats in Thailand, understanding the cost of private health insurance is essential. Health insurance premiums can vary significantly depending on factors such as age, health, and the level of coverage. On average:

• Basic individual plans (covering inpatient or emergency care only) cost between 20,000 and 50,000 Baht annually (approximately US$540 to 1,350).

• Comprehensive individual plans (covering inpatient, outpatient, specialist visits, dental, and wellness care) range from 100,000 to 200,000 baht annually (approximately US$2,700 to 5,400).

• Family plans tend to be more expensive, with premiums averaging around US$11,683 annually, depending on the number of family members.

The cost increases with age, especially for those around retirement age, and may also depend on pre-existing conditions, coverage levels, and whether the plan is local or international. 

However, despite the costs, private health insurance in Thailand provides significant long-term benefits, particularly for those with chronic conditions or who anticipate needing specialist care.

The risks of going without private health insurance

 

Living in Thailand without private health insurance exposes you to substantial risks. While healthcare is generally affordable, the cost of private healthcare can quickly add up, especially for emergencies or major procedures. Here’s a look at the potential costs:

• A general doctor’s visit: 1,000 to 3,000 baht.

• Specialist consultations: 1,500 to 4,000 baht.

• Minor surgeries (e.g., mole removal, wound stitching): 5,000 to 15,000 baht.

• Major hospital stays or surgeries: 30,000 to 500,000 baht or more.

• Emergency evacuations: Air ambulance services can cost anywhere between 150,000 and 800,000 baht.

These costs can quickly become overwhelming if unexpected medical emergencies arise. Without health insurance, you may find yourself paying these bills out of pocket, putting significant strain on your finances.

Benefits of private health insurance for long-term stay in Thailand

Private health insurance offers numerous long-term benefits for expats in Thailand. Here are some of the most compelling reasons to invest in coverage:

1. Access to top-quality private hospitals and clinics: Private health insurance provides access to Thailand’s best private hospitals. These hospitals are equipped with advanced medical technology and staffed by qualified medical professionals who speak English.

2. Faster access to healthcare services: One of the key advantages of private healthcare is shorter wait times. Private hospitals offer quicker consultations, treatments, and surgeries, so you don’t have to wait for urgent care.

3. Comprehensive coverage: Private health insurance plans offer extensive coverage that includes inpatient and outpatient care, specialist consultations, surgeries, dental and optical care, maternity care, emergency services, and even medical evacuation.

4. Peace of mind: Private health insurance helps protect you from unexpected medical expenses. With the rising cost of healthcare, having private insurance gives you peace of mind.

5. Tailored plans for expats: Providers like Cigna offer flexible health insurance plans designed for expats. These plans allow you to customise coverage based on your needs.

6. Long-term security: For expats planning to live in Thailand for the long term, having health insurance ensures continuous access to care and protection.

How Cigna’s health insurance plans work in Thailand

Cigna offers a range of health insurance plans for expats in Thailand. Their plans cater to both short-term and long-term needs, providing flexibility and access to top-tier healthcare services. Some of Cigna’s plans include:

 

• Cigna Close Care: This plan is ideal for expats living mainly in Thailand. It offers access to top private hospitals in the country and provides 180 days of coverage in your home country or Asia (excluding China, Hong Kong, and Singapore).

• Cigna Global Health: Perfect for frequent travellers, this plan offers three coverage options: Thailand/Asia, worldwide excluding the USA, or worldwide. All plans include emergency care and up to 21 days of coverage for short trips.

 

Cigna’s health insurance plans are known for their reliability and customer service. With direct billing at top hospitals in Thailand, the claim process is made simple, reducing out-of-pocket costs. Cigna offers 24/7 assistance for emergencies and medical evacuation services if needed.

 

 

 

Private health insurance in Thailand is a long-term investment in your health and well-being. Because the cost of private healthcare can add up quickly, private health insurance ensures that you have access to high-quality care, faster service, and financial protection against unexpected medical expenses.

For expats, having comprehensive private health insurance is worth the price, especially for those planning to live in Thailand long-term. Providers like Cigna offer flexible plans tailored to the needs of expats, giving you the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have reliable healthcare coverage. 

 

 

 

Sponsored - Original article by The Thaiger

 

[newbee2022]

Yes, it is 👍

[save the frogs]

here we go again.

this debate will go on for 42 pages ... 

 

[Cat Boy]

The short answer is "no", health insurance is not worth it for a long term stay in Thailand. 

 

The long answer has already been covered in previous identical posts. 

 

Namly,:

1) Denial of claims based on either pre-existing conditions (note, chronic conditions acquired whilst under coverage will subsequently be considered as pre-existing resulting in termination and non-renewal. 

2) Insurance puts a non-medical third party into the decision process for proper care between patients and doctors. That third party is solely motivated by profit, read: denial, or delay of treatment or minimizing to substandard inadequate treatment 

3) Aging out, at a certain age the cost of health is becomes expensive for the insured while the insurer will seek any possible way to get out from coverage and or cancel coverage. 

 

The only sure method to insure coverage is to take charge oneself, save and invest the money otherwise thrown away on insurance and provide your own safety network. 

[Tom100]

I hate these insurance company paid ads.

It is profitable selling insurance... but not worth buying because the insurers will delay and deny paying a claim. 

My visa requires health insurance FROM A THAI COMPANY. They would not process my claims let alone pay them. NO WAY! 

Forcing farang to buy insurance from Thai companies is a scam. 

 

[Card]

22 hours ago, Sales Team said:

 

Thailand has long been a top destination for expats and digital nomads seeking a high quality of life, with its affordable living costs. While the country offers both public and private healthcare options, many expats opt for private health insurance for peace of mind, better care, and flexibility, especially for those planning to stay long-term.

Understanding the healthcare system in Thailand

Thailand boasts a strong healthcare system, combining public and private options. While the public healthcare system offers affordable care, expats often face a few notable challenges, which include:

• Limited choice of hospitals: Access is often restricted to specific public hospitals assigned by employers.

• Long wait times: Public hospitals can be overcrowded, which results in extended wait times for appointments, treatments, and surgeries.

• Language barriers: In smaller cities or rural areas, finding English-speaking staff can be difficult, leading to communication challenges.

• Out-of-pocket costs for non-working expats: Retirees and non-working expats are often required to pay for public healthcare services themselves.

While public healthcare is inexpensive, it does not provide the flexibility, convenience, or personal care that private healthcare offers. That’s where private health insurance steps in.

The long-term cost of private health insurance

For expats in Thailand, understanding the cost of private health insurance is essential. Health insurance premiums can vary significantly depending on factors such as age, health, and the level of coverage. On average:

• Basic individual plans (covering inpatient or emergency care only) cost between 20,000 and 50,000 Baht annually (approximately US$540 to 1,350).

• Comprehensive individual plans (covering inpatient, outpatient, specialist visits, dental, and wellness care) range from 100,000 to 200,000 baht annually (approximately US$2,700 to 5,400).

• Family plans tend to be more expensive, with premiums averaging around US$11,683 annually, depending on the number of family members.

The cost increases with age, especially for those around retirement age, and may also depend on pre-existing conditions, coverage levels, and whether the plan is local or international. 

However, despite the costs, private health insurance in Thailand provides significant long-term benefits, particularly for those with chronic conditions or who anticipate needing specialist care.

The risks of going without private health insurance

 

Living in Thailand without private health insurance exposes you to substantial risks. While healthcare is generally affordable, the cost of private healthcare can quickly add up, especially for emergencies or major procedures. Here’s a look at the potential costs:

• A general doctor’s visit: 1,000 to 3,000 baht.

• Specialist consultations: 1,500 to 4,000 baht.

• Minor surgeries (e.g., mole removal, wound stitching): 5,000 to 15,000 baht.

• Major hospital stays or surgeries: 30,000 to 500,000 baht or more.

• Emergency evacuations: Air ambulance services can cost anywhere between 150,000 and 800,000 baht.

These costs can quickly become overwhelming if unexpected medical emergencies arise. Without health insurance, you may find yourself paying these bills out of pocket, putting significant strain on your finances.

Benefits of private health insurance for long-term stay in Thailand

Private health insurance offers numerous long-term benefits for expats in Thailand. Here are some of the most compelling reasons to invest in coverage:

1. Access to top-quality private hospitals and clinics: Private health insurance provides access to Thailand’s best private hospitals. These hospitals are equipped with advanced medical technology and staffed by qualified medical professionals who speak English.

2. Faster access to healthcare services: One of the key advantages of private healthcare is shorter wait times. Private hospitals offer quicker consultations, treatments, and surgeries, so you don’t have to wait for urgent care.

3. Comprehensive coverage: Private health insurance plans offer extensive coverage that includes inpatient and outpatient care, specialist consultations, surgeries, dental and optical care, maternity care, emergency services, and even medical evacuation.

4. Peace of mind: Private health insurance helps protect you from unexpected medical expenses. With the rising cost of healthcare, having private insurance gives you peace of mind.

5. Tailored plans for expats: Providers like Cigna offer flexible health insurance plans designed for expats. These plans allow you to customise coverage based on your needs.

6. Long-term security: For expats planning to live in Thailand for the long term, having health insurance ensures continuous access to care and protection.

How Cigna’s health insurance plans work in Thailand

Cigna offers a range of health insurance plans for expats in Thailand. Their plans cater to both short-term and long-term needs, providing flexibility and access to top-tier healthcare services. Some of Cigna’s plans include:

 

• Cigna Close Care: This plan is ideal for expats living mainly in Thailand. It offers access to top private hospitals in the country and provides 180 days of coverage in your home country or Asia (excluding China, Hong Kong, and Singapore).

• Cigna Global Health: Perfect for frequent travellers, this plan offers three coverage options: Thailand/Asia, worldwide excluding the USA, or worldwide. All plans include emergency care and up to 21 days of coverage for short trips.

 

Cigna’s health insurance plans are known for their reliability and customer service. With direct billing at top hospitals in Thailand, the claim process is made simple, reducing out-of-pocket costs. Cigna offers 24/7 assistance for emergencies and medical evacuation services if needed.

 

 

 

Private health insurance in Thailand is a long-term investment in your health and well-being. Because the cost of private healthcare can add up quickly, private health insurance ensures that you have access to high-quality care, faster service, and financial protection against unexpected medical expenses.

For expats, having comprehensive private health insurance is worth the price, especially for those planning to live in Thailand long-term. Providers like Cigna offer flexible plans tailored to the needs of expats, giving you the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have reliable healthcare coverage. 

 

 

 

Sponsored - Original article by The Thaiger

 

Typical Aseannow. An advertisement masquerading as a genuine informative opinion piece. Most of the supposed costs of private treatment are inflated. Private health insurance is overpriced for most retirees in thailand and come with limited claims and are usually not available to those over 70 years old or the premium costs are exhorbitant. If you take care of your health, save the premiums and increase your flexibility to choose how they are spent.

[vukovar77]

no

[Cat Boy]

Birds of a feather:

"UnitedHealth secretly paid nursing homes to cut hospital care, Guardian reports"

https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/unitedhealth-secretly-paid-nursing-homes-to-cut-hospital-care-guardian-reports-052125.html

Healthcare Insurance companies, where universal healthcare does not exist, are motivated solely by profit derived by payment then doing everything possible to deny coverage or, in this case, eliminate liability (the elderly).

[digger70]

Is private health insurance worth it for a long-term stay in Thailand?.

 

Yes it would be worth it   IF the Insurance companies would charge a Decent premium according to the countries cost of health treatment .

They say that healthcare  is cheaper than in Western countries , So why is it than that we have to pay More than in Western countries  and that just about Everything is classed as Preexisting   That would be the reason for not being able to make a claim/Getting Refused .

Than of course we have the problem of being OLD ,Premiums   going true the Roof ,Too Old to get insurance .

Now  healthcare  being cheaper than the West there shouldn't be a reason to have to pay the overpriced premiums for a Minimal Health cover.

 

[edwardflory]

At 80, its impossible to get health insurance at a reasonable cost

 

Here is a HINT for those that can NOT afford OR self insured because of age.

 

I am ...REGISTERED... and use a Thai MILITARY Hospital for my needs. Many x-pats are unaware you can use. I am on a retirement extension.

 

YOU MUST REGISTER 1ST and get THAT HOSPITALS ID CARD.

 

Slightly more cost than govt civilian hospital, way, way, way less than a private hospital.

I do NOT know if insurance or children are accepted.

 

Many Military medical  professionals speak English.

 

1st TIME

Initial CLINIC doctor visit - took my medical history & quick physical, sent me for blood work...then to a 2nd doctor( waited about 30 minutes ) to read the results. 

PRESCRIPTION Blood Pressure meds ( as expected ) $28.00USD total cost including 1 months meds.

 

FAST FORWARD:

3+ years later had a hospital stay ( NOT BP related )

5 and 1/2 day stay.

5 days x-ray

5 days labs

5 days meds 1x1 & 1x3

3 GOOD meals daily

2 doctor visits daily in a 4 person ward, 3 Thai's and me - 2 nurses on duty 24/7

ON DISCHARGE, 3 months of meds 1x1 & 1x3

Cost UNDER $1000USD.

 

EXTREMELY happy with the care I received.

( The 1x1 med in the US would cost me $128.00 monthly if paying cash )

[WDSmart]

I think this all depends on your age, health condition, and money. I, for one, at 79, do not have any health insurance and find going to local public hospitals adequate. The worst part about them is the amount of time you have to wait. When I go, even with an appointment, I just plan to be there all day, especially if I have to get the medicine prescribed. 

[Tazmo]

Pay as you go. Forget these rip off merchants.

I have been doing that even though I have cover.

It doesn’t cover adequately for the needs of an older person.

I only have it to keep the wife quiet. Doubt if I will renew it.

 I just paid 20K baht for a new pair of glasses. In the UK it would have been free! But my choice, Insurance here won’t cover for this nor dental treatment! Or your premium would not suit a pensioner!

A friend recently had a stroke, because of his cancer, Insurance won’t cover him!! Costing him 20K baht per day.

Insurance Companies play on your insecurities and they are one of the reason health care costs rises!

 

[DezLez]

28 minutes ago, Tazmo said:

 I just paid 20K baht for a new pair of glasses.

Must be very special glasses at that price!

[DiDiChok]

1 hour ago, DezLez said:

Must be very special glasses at that price!

Yes, I used to pay around that for variable power spectacles but not any longer as I had the cataract "Supersight" surgery to replace my eye lenses with ones that allow reading as well.  But I can also tell you not to go to shops in malls or large department stores becaise they have to charge that price to pay their rent.  You are always best advised to visit small family street shops as they haven't got the overheads of the big chains of optometrists.  The price quoted at the chain shops can usually be halved in this way.  Like everything, always get at least three quotations.

[ujayujay]

The health insurance industry here in Thailand is nothing more than organized crime. Anyone with any sense who compares the price and benefits of insurance in Europe (except Great Britain) will come to this conclusion!

[pchansmorn]

On 6/27/2025 at 3:52 PM, Sales Team said:

 

Thailand has long been a top destination for expats and digital nomads seeking a high quality of life, with its affordable living costs. While the country offers both public and private healthcare options, many expats opt for private health insurance for peace of mind, better care, and flexibility, especially for those planning to stay long-term.

Understanding the healthcare system in Thailand

Thailand boasts a strong healthcare system, combining public and private options. While the public healthcare system offers affordable care, expats often face a few notable challenges, which include:

• Limited choice of hospitals: Access is often restricted to specific public hospitals assigned by employers.

• Long wait times: Public hospitals can be overcrowded, which results in extended wait times for appointments, treatments, and surgeries.

• Language barriers: In smaller cities or rural areas, finding English-speaking staff can be difficult, leading to communication challenges.

• Out-of-pocket costs for non-working expats: Retirees and non-working expats are often required to pay for public healthcare services themselves.

While public healthcare is inexpensive, it does not provide the flexibility, convenience, or personal care that private healthcare offers. That’s where private health insurance steps in.

The long-term cost of private health insurance

For expats in Thailand, understanding the cost of private health insurance is essential. Health insurance premiums can vary significantly depending on factors such as age, health, and the level of coverage. On average:

• Basic individual plans (covering inpatient or emergency care only) cost between 20,000 and 50,000 Baht annually (approximately US$540 to 1,350).

• Comprehensive individual plans (covering inpatient, outpatient, specialist visits, dental, and wellness care) range from 100,000 to 200,000 baht annually (approximately US$2,700 to 5,400).

• Family plans tend to be more expensive, with premiums averaging around US$11,683 annually, depending on the number of family members.

The cost increases with age, especially for those around retirement age, and may also depend on pre-existing conditions, coverage levels, and whether the plan is local or international. 

However, despite the costs, private health insurance in Thailand provides significant long-term benefits, particularly for those with chronic conditions or who anticipate needing specialist care.

The risks of going without private health insurance

 

Living in Thailand without private health insurance exposes you to substantial risks. While healthcare is generally affordable, the cost of private healthcare can quickly add up, especially for emergencies or major procedures. Here’s a look at the potential costs:

• A general doctor’s visit: 1,000 to 3,000 baht.

• Specialist consultations: 1,500 to 4,000 baht.

• Minor surgeries (e.g., mole removal, wound stitching): 5,000 to 15,000 baht.

• Major hospital stays or surgeries: 30,000 to 500,000 baht or more.

• Emergency evacuations: Air ambulance services can cost anywhere between 150,000 and 800,000 baht.

These costs can quickly become overwhelming if unexpected medical emergencies arise. Without health insurance, you may find yourself paying these bills out of pocket, putting significant strain on your finances.

Benefits of private health insurance for long-term stay in Thailand

Private health insurance offers numerous long-term benefits for expats in Thailand. Here are some of the most compelling reasons to invest in coverage:

1. Access to top-quality private hospitals and clinics: Private health insurance provides access to Thailand’s best private hospitals. These hospitals are equipped with advanced medical technology and staffed by qualified medical professionals who speak English.

2. Faster access to healthcare services: One of the key advantages of private healthcare is shorter wait times. Private hospitals offer quicker consultations, treatments, and surgeries, so you don’t have to wait for urgent care.

3. Comprehensive coverage: Private health insurance plans offer extensive coverage that includes inpatient and outpatient care, specialist consultations, surgeries, dental and optical care, maternity care, emergency services, and even medical evacuation.

4. Peace of mind: Private health insurance helps protect you from unexpected medical expenses. With the rising cost of healthcare, having private insurance gives you peace of mind.

5. Tailored plans for expats: Providers like Cigna offer flexible health insurance plans designed for expats. These plans allow you to customise coverage based on your needs.

6. Long-term security: For expats planning to live in Thailand for the long term, having health insurance ensures continuous access to care and protection.

How Cigna’s health insurance plans work in Thailand

Cigna offers a range of health insurance plans for expats in Thailand. Their plans cater to both short-term and long-term needs, providing flexibility and access to top-tier healthcare services. Some of Cigna’s plans include:

 

• Cigna Close Care: This plan is ideal for expats living mainly in Thailand. It offers access to top private hospitals in the country and provides 180 days of coverage in your home country or Asia (excluding China, Hong Kong, and Singapore).

• Cigna Global Health: Perfect for frequent travellers, this plan offers three coverage options: Thailand/Asia, worldwide excluding the USA, or worldwide. All plans include emergency care and up to 21 days of coverage for short trips.

 

Cigna’s health insurance plans are known for their reliability and customer service. With direct billing at top hospitals in Thailand, the claim process is made simple, reducing out-of-pocket costs. Cigna offers 24/7 assistance for emergencies and medical evacuation services if needed.

 

 

 

Private health insurance in Thailand is a long-term investment in your health and well-being. Because the cost of private healthcare can add up quickly, private health insurance ensures that you have access to high-quality care, faster service, and financial protection against unexpected medical expenses.

For expats, having comprehensive private health insurance is worth the price, especially for those planning to live in Thailand long-term. Providers like Cigna offer flexible plans tailored to the needs of expats, giving you the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have reliable healthcare coverage. 

 

 

 

Sponsored - Original article by The Thaiger

 

If you are healthy it’s not worth the money.  You can just bank that money you would had paid the insurance company and make interest on it.  Use it when you need it.

[Peter Crow]

Seems that many failed to understand that health cover isn't an afterthought you have at 65, or worse, after 70. It should influence our choices of employers while we are fit. After 40 once a solid salary/retirement/health cover package has been secured we must dig in to keep it. That's what I did, not too much excitement in my older working years, but a peaceful exit instead...