Why medical insurance in Thailand is Essential
Thailand has long been a popular destination for expatriates, retirees, and travellers drawn by its vibrant culture, affordable cost of living, and laid back approach. Recently, more and more people are drawn by its excellent healthcare system which draws both Thai residents and medical tourists alike.
As a result of this increased interest, there has been a growing demand for medical insurance for Thailand, from both Thai Nationals and foreigners alike. Navigating the complexities of medical insurance in Thailand can be challenging, especially for foreigners unfamiliar with local options and how health/medical insurance works in Thailand.
This article explores five top health insurance providers offering some of the best medical insurance in Thailand and what makes them stand out for individuals, families, and businesses.
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Our pick for the Best 5 Providers
Thailand is renowned for its world-class private hospitals, but accessing them without insurance can be expensive. For both locals and expatriates, having a private medical insurance Thailand plan ensures access to high-quality healthcare without financial strain, and without having to join the long queues you’ll see at Government hospitals in Thailand.
Comprehensive coverage is particularly crucial for foreigners, as the Thai healthcare system does not automatically cover expatriates. Even if you are a Thai tax payer, you’ll only be able to access care at your chosen social security hospitals.
Whether you need family medical insurance coverage, office medical insurance, or individual plans, choosing the right provider is vital and will go a long way towards making your stay in Thailand as trouble free as possible.
Here we provide the low down on our top 5 providers.
1. Allianz Ayudhya
Allianz is a huge global medical insurance brand and one which even non insurance savvy people will have heard of. Allianz operates in all non-life insurance spheres. That includes car insurance, property insurance, and personal accident insurance.
Headquartered in Chitlom, Bangkok, Allianz Ayudhya offers some of the best major medical insurance plans in the market. With options to suit individuals, families and companies alike, Allianz Ayudhaya really is a solid option in the non life insurance space.
For expatriates, Allianz Ayudhya has a range of comprehensive plans that cater to a variety of needs, including those needing outpatient services, inpatient care, international coverage and maternity cover. If you are looking for top notch cover, the Ultracare plans should be your first port of call. Families benefit from high level benefits that address family medical insurance coverage, offering peace of mind for all. This includes a pay for 1, get the rest free pricing policy for kids on the Ultracare Plans. Allianz has a large direct billing network in place which means you can access both inpatient and outpatient treatment on a cashless basis at all of the main hospitals Expats commonly frequent.
2. Pacific Cross Health Insurance
Pacific Cross is a specialist in expat medical insurance in Thailand. With years of experience serving foreigners, the company understands the unique needs of this demographic. They have a range of plans from basic inpatient plans all the way up to the best full coverage medical insurance options, which include outpatient care, maternity benefits, and dental/vision.
Pacific Cross offers flexibility, especially with deductibles which allow for older policy holders to reduce premiums by shouldering some of the risk themselves. When combined with no claims discounts which the insurer offers, premiums for over 50’s on the Pacific Cross Lifestyle Series are some of the most attractive in the market.
Keep an eye out for the new Expat Care plans, which offer coverage for pre-existing conditions after 2 years of coverage. Pacific Cross is the first local provider to offer coverage for pre-existing conditions. So if you have any health issues, the Expat Care plan may be worth checking out.
Pacific Cross benefits from a strong customer service team which includes medical insurance experts who guide clients through the claims process. This is particularly helpful for both insured on corporate group plans and individual plans.
3. LUMA
Luma has long been an Expat favorite for those looking for a reliable health insurance plan with the company offering some of the best medical insurance in Thailand for expatriates and travelers.
LUMA’s has 2 main ranges of plan. The first being the Hi5, and the second being their Prime Plans. Cover levels range from 5 million THB to 50 million THB per policy year.
Their international plans provide coverage not only in Thailand but also up to worldwide, depending on the cover area you choose. This makes them ideal for those frequently traveling or working abroad.
Luma’s plans are praised for their extensive benefits, including inpatient and outpatient care, dental and vision coverage, and mental health services. They are also highly rated on medical insurance comparison sites, which consistently highlight their reliability and excellent customer service.
4. April Thailand
Since entering the Thai market, April Thailand has made massive strides towards being an Expat favorite. Their packages include some of the best full coverage medical insurance options, ensuring policyholders have access to Thailand’s premium private hospitals, with more than adequate levels of coverage.
April’s MyHealth plans benefit from the highest degree of flexibility in the market. Each family member can have differing benefit levels, there are numerous deductible options, and April even offers a restricted network for those looking to save money on premium.
April’s service offering is particularly strong. Their EasyClaim application gives each policy holder oversight of pre-approval requests or claims submissions.
April’s plans are particularly appealing for businesses seeking office medical insurance solutions for their employees. These group health insurance plans are designed to enhance employee satisfaction and retention while providing comprehensive healthcare benefits.
April’s tailored plans are excellent for long-term residents looking for dependable medical insurance in Thailand for foreigners.
5. AXA Insurance Thailand
AXA is a globally recognized brand offering a wide range of insurance products, including health insurance. Their plans are often highlighted for their affordability and comprehensive coverage, making them a strong contender for the best major medical insurance plans in Thailand.
AXA’s offerings allow customers to choose from a variety of packages, catering to both individuals and families.
Their expat-friendly options include coverage for inpatient care, outpatient services, and emergency evacuation. Check out AXA’s Essential plans along with their Switchcare plans. Both are particularly popular among Expats. For fully comprehensive coverage, the International Exclusive plans offer best in class coverage.
AXA Thailand is also a major player in corporate and group health insurance.
Key Factors to Consider
When choosing the best medical insurance in Thailand, consider these factors:
- Coverage Scope: Ensure the plan covers your specific needs. A good broker will carry out a full initial fact find to make sure they match you up with a plan which meets your individual needs.
- Network Access: Opt for a provider with an extensive hospital and clinic network across Thailand. This will allow for convenient direct billing and most importantly they will be providers who are used to dealing with your chosen insurer.
- Foreign Policyholder Experience: For expatriates, it’s crucial to select a company with expertise in serving foreigners. They will have English speaking staff who will be able to deal with you in English. This is particularly important as and when claims come around.
- Customizability: The ability to make plans as bespoke as possible really is a big selling point for any insurer. Adding deductibles and co-pays can help to reduce premium so should be looked at where available.
- Reputation: Whilst medical insurance comparison sites allow you to compare pricing, there is no substitute to a good broker in terms of knowing who the best performing insurers are currently. Ask for their advice!
Conclusion
Whether you’re a Thai resident, expatriate, or frequent visitor, having quality health insurance is essential. Companies like Allianz, LUMA, April, Pacific Cross, and AXA offer some of the best full coverage medical insurance options in the market. With their expertise and wide range of plans, these providers ensure that individuals, families, and businesses have access to world-class healthcare in Thailand, at the best international hospitals and medical establishments.
By understanding the details of medical insurance in Thailand, leveraging medical insurance experts, and comparing options with medical insurance brokers, you can find the perfect policy for peace of mind.