Healthcare in Pattaya: Hospitals, Costs and Why You Need Insurance

I think the medical care here is first class, and the customer service especially is absolutely first class. But my main advice on healthcare in Thailand is simple: get health insurance.

Which hospital do we use in Pattaya?

We've always used Bangkok Hospital Pattaya. When I first arrived, it was one of the only international hospitals here, so naturally I went there, and I've gone there ever since.

When do we go to Bangkok?

Only occasionally, when we need a specialist that Bangkok Hospital Pattaya doesn't have, such as a children's dentist or a children's optician. Then we go to Bumrungrad in Bangkok.

Both our children were born at Samitivej Hospital in Sriracha. We looked at three or four places, and it wasn't about price. We really liked the doctor there, and that's what decided it.

How much does a hospital visit cost in Pattaya?

A standard hospital visit is normally between ฿2,000 and ฿3,000, depending on whether you need medication.

Why is health insurance so important in Thailand?

There are a lot of stories in Thailand of uninsured patients who can't pay being turned away by private hospitals and sent to a government hospital instead. Sometimes that can be critical. Getting insurance really can be life-saving, so that situation never happens to you.

Even with insurance, you're not necessarily out of the woods. Every policy has a limit, and depending on what's wrong, a claim can skyrocket quickly. Having insurance doesn't automatically mean you're fully covered, so check your limits.

Who do we insure with?

My whole family is insured with Pacific Cross, an international insurer, through a local broker, Macallan Insurance, founded by Jack Levy. Most of my friends insure through Jack's company too.

Whether you're staying long term or even short term, get health insurance before you need it.

For what else life here costs, see Is Pattaya Expensive?, and if you're bringing children, is Pattaya good for families?