Question 1

Who can apply for health insurance in Thailand?

Accepted Answer

This depends on the insurance companies. Some insurance companies accept applications until age 70, but most insurance companies only accept new entries until the age of 64 or 60. You must be a resident of Thailand to apply for most local insurance plans.

Question 2

How much does health insurance cost in Thailand?

Accepted Answer

Health insurance in Thailand starts from ฿9,000 per year for basic coverage. Mid-range plans cost ฿40,000-80,000 annually, while comprehensive coverage can range from ฿80,000-200,000. Premium plans with worldwide coverage can exceed ฿200,000 depending on age, coverage level, and options chosen.

Question 3

What's the difference between Outpatient and Inpatient coverage?

Accepted Answer

Inpatient coverage is for hospitalization requiring overnight stays or multiple days based on doctor's recommendation. Outpatient coverage is for doctor's visits and procedures that don't require hospital stays, including consultations, prescribed medications, and lab exams. Most emergency treatments start as outpatient care.

Question 4

Are pre-existing conditions covered by Thai health insurance?

Accepted Answer

While everyone is welcome to apply for health insurance, pre-existing conditions are typically excluded from coverage. You will get coverage for new conditions, but pre-existing conditions will not be included in the policy. Some insurers may offer coverage for pre-existing conditions after a waiting period or with additional premium loading.

Question 5

What hospitals can I visit with Thai health insurance?

Accepted Answer

You can visit any hospital of your choice in Thailand. However, each insurance company has a network list. If you visit a hospital within the network, direct billing is usually available. For out-of-network hospitals, you may need to pay first and get reimbursed. Network hospitals usually include major facilities like Bumrungrad, Bangkok Hospital, and Samitivej.

Question 6

Do I need health insurance for a Thai visa?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many Thai visas require health insurance. The Non-Immigrant O-A Visa requires at least 400,000 THB inpatient coverage, the Special Tourist Visa (STV) requires minimum coverage of 100,000 USD, and the Long-Term Resident Visa requires minimum coverage of 50,000 USD. Requirements vary by visa type and may change.

Question 7

How quickly can I get covered after applying?

Accepted Answer

Most insurance companies have a 30-day waiting period for illness coverage, though emergency accident coverage usually starts immediately. The application process typically takes 3-4 days, and policy documents are delivered within 7-10 business days. Some international insurers offer immediate coverage for everything except pre-existing conditions.

Question 8

Does Thai health insurance cover me outside Thailand?

Accepted Answer

Most plans provide coverage when traveling outside Thailand, but you typically need to pay first and get reimbursed upon return to Thailand. Keep all original medical certificates and receipts for reimbursement. Coverage areas can be limited to Thailand, extended to Asia, or worldwide depending on your plan.

Question 9

What documents do I need to apply for health insurance in Thailand?

Accepted Answer

Basic requirements include a completed application form and a copy of your passport with verified signature. Some insurance companies may also require work permit and visa documentation. If you're over 64, medical examination results or medical records may be required. All documents must be submitted before coverage can begin.

Question 10

Can I get maternity coverage in Thailand?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but maternity coverage typically comes with a 10-month waiting period before benefits begin. You can apply for health insurance while pregnant, but pregnancy-related costs won't be covered. Some premium plans include maternity coverage as standard, while others offer it as an add-on option.

Question 11

What is the maximum age for health insurance renewal in Thailand?

Accepted Answer

Most insurance companies will allow renewals until age 80 or 90, depending on the provider. However, premiums typically increase significantly with age. Some international insurers offer lifetime renewal guarantees, but these plans often come with higher premiums.

Question 12

Does Thai health insurance cover dental and vision care?

Accepted Answer

Dental and vision coverage are usually optional add-ons to basic health insurance plans. Dental coverage typically includes routine procedures, cleaning, and fillings, but excludes cosmetic procedures. Vision coverage includes eye exams and may cover prescription glasses or contact lenses, depending on the plan.

Question 13

How do deductibles work in Thai health insurance?

Accepted Answer

A deductible is an amount you agree to pay before insurance coverage begins. Choosing a higher deductible typically lowers your premium. Deductibles can apply per condition, per visit, or per year, depending on your policy. Some plans offer no-deductible options for higher premiums.

Question 14

What is the difference between local and international insurance plans?

Accepted Answer

Local plans typically offer lower premiums but may have more restricted hospital networks and coverage areas. International plans usually provide wider coverage areas, higher limits, and more flexibility in choosing healthcare providers, but come with higher premiums. International plans often include medical evacuation coverage.

Question 15

How does direct billing work with Thai health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Direct billing allows you to receive treatment without paying upfront at network hospitals. The hospital bills your insurance company directly. This service is typically available for inpatient treatment and sometimes for outpatient care. You may need pre-authorization for certain treatments.

Question 16

What are the waiting periods for different treatments?

Accepted Answer

Common waiting periods include 30 days for illness coverage, 10 months for maternity benefits, and 120 days for pre-existing conditions (if covered). Accident coverage typically has no waiting period. Some international insurers may waive waiting periods except for specific conditions.

Question 17

How do I make a claim with my Thai health insurance?

Accepted Answer

For network hospitals with direct billing, no immediate payment is needed. For other cases, pay first and submit a claim form with original receipts and medical certificates. Claims can usually be submitted online or through a mobile app. Reimbursement typically takes 7-14 working days.

Question 18

Does Thai health insurance cover COVID-19 treatment?

Accepted Answer

Most health insurance plans in Thailand now cover COVID-19 treatment, including hospitalization and related complications. Coverage may vary by plan and provider. Some plans may also cover vaccination costs and COVID-19 tests when medically necessary.

Question 19

What happens if I change jobs or leave Thailand?

Accepted Answer

Most individual health insurance plans continue regardless of employment changes. If leaving Thailand permanently, some plans offer the option to continue coverage internationally. Group insurance through employers typically ends with employment. Check your policy's portability options.

Question 20

Can I add family members to my health insurance plan?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most insurers allow you to add spouse and dependent children to your policy. Family plans often come with discounts. Newborns can typically be added within 30 days of birth without medical underwriting. Adult children usually need separate policies after age 25.

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