Before visiting Thailand for medical tourism, it is smart to plan in advance. To make sure your trip is stress free and successful, please see the tips below before embarking on your journey:
- Research and Choose a Hospital/Clinic: Due to time & language differences, as well as the abundance of healthcare options in the Thai market, finding the best hospital, doctor or dentist for your specific needs may be a challenge. Consider using a local medical tourism facilitator to help you find reputable hospitals/clinics and get price estimates prior to arrival. It is paramount to make sure you will receive treatment from established facilities that have internationally recognized certifications (such as JCI accreditation), positive patient reviews and an verifiable track records.
- Medical Records: Prepare your medical records, including your medical history, current health condition, and any relevant test results to share with the doctors. The more information about your condition the better suited the doctors/dentists will be to work with you.
- Visa and Travel Arrangements: Make sure you are in compliance with Thai law and meet any possible visa requirements before visiting. For people visiting from countries such as America, 30 day visas on arrivals are given and there is no need for any specific visa to visit. However this is not the case for many countries, and prior to travel you must confirm what is required so you don’t run into problems. There are now also one year medical visas available for people who will be staying in Thailand long term which may be appropriate given your situation – Check with a lawyer or Medical Tourism company for more information. In terms of accommodation, it is wise to have your place of stay close to your place of treatment, as traffic in Bangkok can be very heavy at times. Likewise, you may want to have a car service or personal driver available for you during your trip to make getting around town as seamless as possible.
- Insurance: Consider obtaining medical travel insurance that covers unexpected complications or that allows for additional medical care that might be needed after your treatment.
- Prepare Questions: Compile a list of comprehensive questions to ask your doctor during the initial consultation. Clarify all aspects of the procedure including the recovery process, and post treatment care.
- Finances: Clarify the costs involved in your medical treatment, including consultation, procedure, hospital stay, medications, and follow-up appointments. Likewise make sure you factor in flights, transportation and accommodation into the equation. Lastly, ensure you have a clear understanding of the payment process.
- Pre Procedure Instructions: Make sure to follow any pre-procedure instructions provided by the medical facility, such as food or drink restrictions, medication requirements, and any necessary medical tests before arrival.
- Post Procedure Care: Make sure you understand the recovery process. This includes the expected time of your stay in Thailand, restrictions on your physical activities, and post-treatment medication requirements.
- Local Support: Have a local contact or a medical tourism company you trust that can assist you during your stay; especially somebody who can speak the Thai language and is familiar with Thai culture. Likewise somebody that can speak your native language.
- Emergency Contacts: Maintain a list of emergency contacts; from your home country and in Thailand. In the rare instance of an emergency, having a ready list of people that can help you makes a huge difference.
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It is advisable to work with a Thai Health Tourism Facilitator who can assist you in all the above mentioned points. From the planning stage, to your treatment & your post treatment.
Get in Touch:
📞+66 090-985-2023 | 📧Derek@healthtoursthailand.com