The article from The West Australian featured below presents both the advantages and disadvantages of medical tourism in Thailand from an Australian perspective.
On the positive side, Thailand’s reputation for skilled healthcare professionals, world class medical facilities & affordable prices attracts millions of international patients. Additionally, the country’s tourist attractions make it an appealing destination for medical travelers.
From the article:
– Over 60 Thai hospitals hold JCI accreditation (Joint Commission International), the regulatory body the certifies hospitals around the world who wish to meet the same high quality of standards as required in America
– The cost of medical procedures in Thailand are about 60% lower than those in the west and there are minimal waiting times involved.
– The health tourism industry is flourishing in Thailand with approximately 4 million medical tourists visiting Thailand each year. Thailand as a whole was ranked 5th out of 46 global destinations for healthcare travel as rated by Florida based International Healthcare Research Center (IHRC).
Disadvantages stem from concerns about language barriers and insurance coverage (Australia’s Medicare does not cover medical expenses incurred overseas). The article below highlights the need for adequate research and consideration before deciding on medical tourism in Thailand.
Read the full article below:
https://thewest.com.au/travel/for-and-against-medical-tourism-in-thailand-c-10930021