The history of medical tourism in Thailand dates back to the 60s of the last century, when the construction of large hotels, clinics, and salons began. Now this country is one of the largest medical tourism centers in the world. Learn more about popular medical services and necessary documents for medical and recreational tourism in Thailand

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Thailand is one of the countries where medical tourism has been gaining momentum in recent years and is becoming increasingly popular. People from all over the world come here not only to receive medical care, but also to improve their health and restore their physical and spiritual strength. The main reasons why Thai medicine is so attractive to foreigners include: 

1. Low cost of treatment;

2. Quality of medical services in private medical centers;

3. Highly developed tourism industry.

There are more than 1000 hospitals in Thailand, of which more than 470 are private. About 37 private institutions have been accredited by JCI. How to get medical care in Thailand, what you need to do, what documents you need to prepare - read further in the article.

Benefits of treatment in Thailand

Thailand attracts foreigners as a leading destination for medical tourism for several important reasons. First, it is the low cost of medical services. The cost of medical procedures in Thailand is much lower than in the US or Europe, which allows patients to save up to 20% while maintaining high quality of care. This makes it possible to combine treatment with rehabilitation and relaxation on picturesque beaches.

Secondly, the variety and high quality of medical services. Thai clinics are equipped with modern equipment and offer a high level of service that is not inferior to the European one. The ever-growing demand for medical tourism encourages Thai doctors to improve their professional skills, which improves the overall level of medical care in the country.

Thirdly, the possibility of combining treatment with recreation due to the developed infrastructure. Thailand is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Asia. This allows patients to combine medical procedures with recreation, admiring the incredible nature and visiting unique ancient monuments. In addition, tourists are attracted by the high level of service and hospitality of the locals, which makes their stay in Thailand even more enjoyable.

Popular remedies of Thai traditional medicine

Thai folk medicine is famous for its wealth of nutrients and trace elements used in various remedies. From herbal joint balms to special teas, Thai medicine offers a wide range of products available in local pharmacies.

Herbal balms based on medicinal herbs are used to relieve pain in muscles, joints, and tendons. They are effective for sprains, bruises, and bumps, and stimulate blood circulation. They are often mixed with oils for maximum effect.

Antiseptics with mangosteen bark extract are popular among locals. They do not burn the skin, disinfect wounds, and are even used to treat inflammation of the mucous membranes. These antiseptics also moisturize the skin well, making them effective as hand creams.

Bam Rung Rang Kai tincture contains about 70 medicinal herbs. It is a universal remedy that normalizes metabolism, boosts immunity, relieves fatigue, and normalizes blood pressure. It is also used to prevent and treat influenza, helping the body recover from major surgeries.

Thailand is famous for a variety of medicinal teas that are not only delicious but also have healing properties. Teas for detoxification, weight loss, calming, and normalizing metabolism all offer different health benefits. For example, a toxin detoxifying tea cleanses the body, reduces the likelihood of lymph node inflammation, and accelerates wound healing.

Bactericidal creams effectively fight infections and skin inflammation. They help with itching from insect bites, treat herpes and allergic reactions, which makes them popular among tourists.

Lemongrass is used in Thai medicine as an analgesic, antidepressant, antioxidant, and antimicrobial. It also has healing, bactericidal, and sedative properties. Lemongrass teas have diaphoretic properties and are used to treat rhinitis, sinusitis and other respiratory diseases.

Thai folk medicine, with its various ointments, creams and tinctures, has gained worldwide recognition as an effective alternative to traditional treatments. Modern massage techniques and traditional recipes are widely used in leading countries, which indicates their effectiveness and versatility.

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Features of medical services for foreigners in Thailand

First of all, you need to find a medical institution for treatment or other medical services. If this task turns out to be difficult, you can take the help of companies specializing in medical tourism. 

In Thailand, the highest level of service is provided in private hospitals and centers, where modern services are used and some of the most experienced doctors work. 

Among the best healthcare institutions in the country, which are known all over the world, are: 

1. Bumrungrad International; 

2. Bangkok Hospitals Group; 

3. Samitivej Hospitals. 

Among the most common and popular procedures most often used by foreign tourists in Thailand are the following: 

1. Cosmetic/plastic surgery;

2. Dental procedures;

3. Medical examination programs;

4. Cardiac procedures;

5. Orthopedic surgery;

6. Infertility treatment;

7. Bariatric surgery;

8. Gastric bypass surgery and banding; 

9. Ophthalmology and eye surgery;

10. Cataract surgery, etc.

Visa application for medical tourism in Thailand

The next step after choosing a clinic is to prepare the necessary documents. To travel to the country for treatment, it is recommended to obtain, first of all, a medical visa MT.

The following documents are required to apply for it: 

1. Foreign passport;

2. A completed visa application form;

3. Photos of 35x45mm or 30x40mm in size;

4. Tickets in both directions;

5. Certificate of account;

6. A document from the place of work. 

You also need to fill out a questionnaire and prepare medical documents, including examination reports.  

Foreign nationals who have arrived in Thailand on a medical visa for treatment or examination are entitled to stay in the country for up to 90 days. It is mandatory to have all the necessary documents confirming the identity and purpose of the visit.   

It is also advisable to take out health insurance in advance, which covers certain expenses and allows you to enjoy certain benefits. There are two main types of insurance available in Thailand: public and private.

According to the requirements, upon arrival, tourists must pass an entry check and submit the necessary documents to the immigration/medical control officer.

After these formalities, vaccinated persons and guests who have a document confirming a negative test result are allowed to travel freely to any place in the country. If a tourist is unvaccinated and does not have proof of a negative test result, he or she must follow the instructions and recommendations of the health service within 72 hours of arrival.

Recreational tourism in Thailand

Recreational tourism is no less popular in Thailand. Foreigners often visit the country to go to temples, of which there are many, as well as for retreats, wellness treatments, and restoration of spiritual strength. 

The amazing Thai health resorts, sanatoriums and Thai massages are also world famous. For example, a wide range of relaxing treatments is available at the famous Lavana Bangkok spa.

Daria Rogova, Head of Insurance at Visit World

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