Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

As the world is evolving every day, our lifestyle has continued to see rapid growth. As we need to evolve with this changing lifestyle, we also need to be aware of all the uncertainties arising from those changes. Hence, to stay protected, we need to decide the right international healthcare system.

Of course, the UAE government has incredibly improved in satisfying expats. From medical facilities, outdoor activities to proper campaign measures to curb the global pandemic, the benefits of living in the UAE cannot be overemphasized. It’s home to a wide range of nationalities and absolutely income tax.

Thankfully, it’s not too difficult to move everything you own across the world. In the UAE, there’s plenty to recommend about life in a land where the skies are almost blue. Also, the weather and beaches are amazing. Now, if you love following a day of work by working on your tan, the UAE is the best option.

In fact, everything is gorgeous! From the man-made islands off the coast of Dubai to the world’s tallest tower, you’ll enjoy visiting the country. Well, if you choose to know more about the fantastic things the UAE has for you, read through this guide as we’ve unleashed some of the facts about living in the UAE.

Nevertheless, you can check our previous blog post about moving to the UAE expat guide to know better. Besides, in this article, we will walk you through the concept of the healthcare system in this country. Not only that, but we have compiled the best international health insurance companies.

Interesting Facts about Living in the UAE

Living in the United Arab Emirates is an incredible experience like no other. It’s a home to a wide range of nationalities, nightlife to rival London and New York, and absolutely zero income tax. So, why are expats choosing to live and work in Dubai and the UAE? Well, let’s quickly take a look at what we have.

Vast Professional Opportunities

Working in the United Arab Emirates is not just about money! This is because; it can also be a great way to fast forward your career, paving the way for new opportunities and greater responsibility for expat across the world. You’ll see large, urban areas such as Abu Dhabi and Dubai having thriving business economies that always require English-speaking new hires to drive forward their innovation and life.

No matter your field or industry, there’s likely to be an employment opportunity for you in the UAE. In fact, Dubai is becoming a global hub for business and is already certainly the Middle East’s prime location for commerce and enterprise.

Tax-free Earnings in the UAE

Tax-free in the United Arab Emirates is a huge benefit and may sound too good to be true. This factor, combined with the lack of tax on food, drink, and other goods, can literally make the emirates a very cheap place to live. So, if you find your way in this country, you’d be glad to enjoy your lifestyle.

However, to benefit most, you’ll need to get advice on tax residency to avoid having to pay tax on your income. Also, a few years spent working in the Middle East can set up your finances for life and help provide for a comfortable retirement.

Best Planned City in the World

Dubai’s growth for the past 20 years has been rapid, and few other places on the planet are able to rival it. Despite the city locale and a distinct lack of natural resources, most other cities and towns have thrived thanks to the superb town planning and the technology adopted throughout. This way, you’d never know just how close to nothingness you really are.

Food is a Lifestyle

In the United Arab Emirates, food is not just an attraction but a lifestyle. Also, researchers made it known that nearly 80 percent of the UAE’s current population are expats, and from time to time, they all fancy their home comforts. So, the food scene in the UAE is truly second-to-none when it comes to choice.

Again, you can work your way around the globe without ever having to leave your new hometown. But of course, while in the United Arab Emirates, you’ll undoubtedly want to sample the exotic flavors and aromas of the Middle Eastern Cuisine.

Best International Transport Hub

The international transport hub in the United Arab Emirates is second to none. Aside from this fact, the international airport is the third busiest in the world by passenger traffic, and the flights to almost all tourist destinations are just 5-6 hours away. In this country, you can take a holiday to Greece or Goa, and neither will cost you too much or take you too long. Moreover, even the Far East is within easy striking distance, and you’re already halfway to Australia.

Safety is Paramount in UAE

Having a feeling of security is quite essential when you’re moving to a new country. The good news is that Dubai is known to be among the safest place in the Middle East for tourists and residents alike. Also, the city’s strict laws mean that its crime rates are virtually non-existence, and where it does happen, it’s usually of the white-collar variety. This means you can live in the UAE with no worries.

Rich Culture and Outdoor Activities

It’s no doubt that cultures grow and thrive in the United Arab Emirates. The multi-cultural population of Dubai means that residents and expats are exposed to not just the traditional Middle Eastern cultures, languages, and religions, but rich cultures and heritage from worldwide. With these thriving cultures, the United Arab Emirates is a melting pot of globalization with a real community feel.

Understanding UAE Healthcare System in 2021

The healthcare system in the UAE is incredibly significant. And this made up to 337,011 medical tourists last year with tons of unique healthcare facilities. Although the COVID-19 pandemic has been a difficult time for everyone, but the government has been trying its best to bring the country back to its normality.

For general coronavirus health information in the UAE, including vaccination schedules and locations, we’ve got you covered. Moreover, you should know that the top areas for medical tourism include orthopedics, dermatology, sports medicine, fertility treatment, and dentistry. Not only that, but expats should know that anyone in the country can access healthcare, but private healthcare is costly.

However, in the United Arab Emirates, there are four different regulatory bodies for healthcare services. They include; the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP), Emirates Health Authority (EHA), the Health Authority Abu Dhabi (HAAD), and the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). But when it comes to finding the best health insurance, we have listed some top-rated international health insurance companies.

How the Healthcare System Works?

The United Arab Emirates has a government-funded healthcare system and a rapidly developing private sector that delivers one of the world’s largest or highest standards of care. With that being said, always know that the healthcare system is regulated by both the federal and emirate level, meaning that the system varies from emirates to emirates.

Aside from the fact mentioned above, the medical facilities are modern, and many are accessible to UAE nationals and foreigners alike. Therefore, both private hospitals and public ones offer excellent healthcare, while the majority of the healthcare providers are foreign or foreign-trained.

On the other hand, medical services in the UAE can be pretty expensive, but the old saying ‘you get what you pay for works in this country. However, for UAE nationals, healthcare is subsidized by the government, but expats usually can access the hospitals and clinics covered by their health insurance.

Also, if foreigners prefer to visit providers out of network, services can be reimbursable by their insurance company or must be paid out of your pocket, which could essentially be cost. Meanwhile, finding doctors in the United Arab Emirates is primarily done through online portals with a wealth of information at your fingertips about both the physician and the clinic available 24 hours a day.

How Healthcare Vary in the United Arab Emirates?

Like we’ve discussed earlier, the healthcare system in the United Arab Emirates can vary depending upon where you work, but unlike other places, it can vary even more depending upon where you are. Though it goes by the emirate, but be rest assured of high-quality services, and incredible facilities. Without further ado, below are the ways in which the healthcare system varies in the country.

• For the UAE nationals, public health and medical treatments are essentially low or free for all Emirati.
• For expat residents, the cost of medical services in the UAE is expensive, but in return, they get high-quality services
• For women and children, the UAE can be one of the most family-friendly nations in the world. Coincidentally, there are numerous healthcare centers for females only, and women fully staff them.
• In Abu Dhabi, companies are required to provide health insurance to their employees, including one spouse and three children.

Top 10 International Health Insurance Company in the UAE

There are many types of international health insurance companies in the United Arab Emirates. They provide several types of plans that could take care of expats medical needs when they are away from home. Generally, there are four types of international health insurance plans, and they include the following.

a.    Individual International Insurance Plan

The individual international health insurance plan is most suitable for people traveling abroad for business, jobs, or personal reasons. This insurance has coverage for one person, and it ensures that even when you are alone in a foreign country, you have international insurance to support you.

b.    Family International Health Insurance

If you’re traveling to a foreign country with your family, then family international medical insurance plans are the right thing to do. This health insurance plan covers the medical expenses of all the family members providing you maximum protection at a considerable price. Moreover, all you’ll have to do is share complete information about your family members before finalizing the premiums that are to be paid.

c.    Students International Health Insurance

Research has made it known that even in this 21^st century, the highest number of travelers moving from one country to another for a prolonged time is students pursuing their higher education. This means this type of insurance plan covers healthcare, emergencies for students, and routine check-ups.

d.    Corporate Company International Insurance

According to the laws in the UAE, all employers must provide health insurance cover for their employees and even to foreigners. So, if you’re an employer planning to buy insurance for your immigrant employees, this insurance package is extremely the best for you.

International Health Insurance Companies in UAE

AXA Gulf Insurance

AXA insurance is one of the leading international health insurance companies in the United Arab Emirates. This company provides expats the best medical care and protects your family against any injury or illness whether you’re traveling abroad or staying in your home country.

In addition to this fact, AXA insurance has tie-ups with the best hospitals to provide a variety of healthcare protections for both expat and locals. Below are some of the benefits that you can avail yourself of with AXA Health Insurance Company.

• Foreigners can claim their insurance at any time of the day or week
• The insurance plan comes with many ranges of covers while you get worldwide medical emergency assistance
• Travelers can avail of personal accident cover with this insurance company
• You can also avail dental cover with this insurance as well as wellbeing telephone service
• AXA health insurance company has an extensive network around the world

Abu Dhabi National Insurance Company (ADNIC)

The Abu Dhabi national insurance company is known as SHIFA medical insurance. They provide several medical plans, including the facility of direct billing that gives assurance to the family. Aside from this fact, the ADNIC insurance companies have a special program for Dubai residents with a discounted price for expats. Without much talk, below are the things SHIFA plans would give you.

• Foreigners can get their annual limit covered for any chronic or pre-existing medical conditions.
• Individual can avail direct billing facility and maternity claim up to your annual limit.
• You can also get a reimbursement of your claims outside the SHIFA network
• They provide emergency services for locals and expats moving to the country for the first time
• Individuals get a variety of healthcare options, including organ transplant, home nursing, and many others, to mention a few.

Emirate Health Insurance Company

The Emirate Health Insurance Company is one of the authorized companies in Abu Dhabi. This insurance company follows the norms of the Health Insurance law in the country, and it’s also licensed to participate in the health program in Abu Dhabi. However, expat can improve their plans according to what they need but should be applicable under the Health insurance law of Abu Dhabi. The medical insurance policy of this insurance company is divided into the following.

• Advanced plan according to your needs and requirements
• VIP plans including exclusive international beneficial coverage for expats
• The Emirate basic health insurance plan is aimed to provide help to blue-collar workers
• Emirate standard plan is basically meant for expat families and locals in the country

Ras AI Kharimah Insurance Company

The Ras AI Kharimah Insurance Company provides insurance plans according to your requirement. RAK also uses third-party assistance that allows individual as well as organizations to have access for 24 hours throughout the week. Additionally, you can avail of a direct billing option with the RAK insurance policy. Along with insurance product benefits, they also offer Everest Pro, which is an innovative single premium product.

Dubai Islamic Insurance

The Dubai Islamic Insurance & Reinsurance Co was established in 2002. It’s a national shareholders company that’s also known as AMAN insurance. They have many plans that cover the most modern elements of insurance which include; clearly set out principles, admission to the best hospitals, fast claim settlements, and many others, to mention a few.

Oman Health Insurance Company

The Oman insurance company is one of the top health insurance companies in the country. When it comes to providing healthcare options, Oman Insurance Company follows all the norms of the Dubai Health Authority. Not only that, but this insurance company also includes domestic help, dependents of sponsors, and more. Without further ado, below are the benefits of using the Oman health insurance company.

• The Oman Insurance Company covers all states in Emirates, except for Abu Dhabi, where only emergency cases can be covered.
• Expat can also avail direct billing for outpatients and inpatients
• It’s one of the insurance companies with the easiest application procedures

Daman Health Insurance Company

The Daman health insurance has also made it to the top of our list. Health insurance offers a wide range of benefits to the insurance holders. Aside from this noticeable fact, they also provide services to individuals, families, and even low-income members in the country. The Daman Insurance Company has a good network with 2000 health providers in the UAE region. And again, they’re known for offering one of the cheapest health insurance in Dubai.

MetLife Individual Plan

With Metlife Insurance Company, you’re covered with your medication in the United Arab Emirates. This company provides an affordable individual medical plan and also sponsored dependents in the country. Also, they provide critical illness protection, stroke, and cancer full coverage, and vaccines that the DHA mandates. Moreover, you can get a visit to a general physician with this company.

Frequently Asked Questions about UAE Health Insurance

Is health insurance mandatory in Dubai?

Health insurance in the United Arab Emirates is mandatory if you’re living in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. On the flip side, you can purchase any private insurance voluntarily elsewhere. And one of the benefits of living in this country is that employers usually arrange health insurance coverage for their staff.

What are the best insurance companies in UAE?

There are many health insurance companies in the United Arab Emirates. As mentioned earlier, you can pick anyone listed above to get the best one that meets your specifications and requirements. Or refer to the explanation above for more information.

Can I have two health insurance in UAE?

According to the DHA, having two health insurance plans running concurrently is allowed, but residents can make only a claim from one policy, and double claims will be treated as legal. This way, you’ll need to submit a separate set of documents to make your claims.

How can I get insurance in the UAE?

Getting an insurance policy in the UAE is quite simple, as discussed earlier. All you have to do as an expat is to get your valid health documents ready, contact an insurer, fill up an application form, pay the fee and confirm your payment. You can refer to this platform for more information about opening insurance as an expat in the United Arab Emirates.

Can I get medical insurance without an ID?

Well, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, expats now have to show their valid ID before they could be allowed to open a health insurance plan. However, if your current medical health care insurance has authorized this change, you can then ditch your health insurance card since your Emirates ID will suffice. This means, depending on the insurance company, you can get one without an ID.

Is Emergency treatment free in UAE?

As of today, the UAE government provide standard health care, and expat can benefit from this medical treatment either in a private hospital or government parastatal. However, in the case of an emergency, the treatment to stabilize the process is usually free. Meanwhile, other treatment would demand credit cards or insurance payments.

Is UAE expensive for a living?

Well, we can tell you that UAE is quite an expensive country to live in. Besides, Dubai is 38.78 percent less than living in New York City.

Conclusion

Currently, healthcare insurance is mandator in Dubai and most cities in the United Arab Emirates. So, if you want to select your favorite, compare your expat healthcare insurance with the best-known medical insurance companies. In other news, refer to our platform for relevant updates.

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

As an expat living in Thailand, finding the best international health insurance company can be very challenging. This is due to the fact that the insurance industry in Thailand is big and highly competitive. Besides, the local and offshore insurance companies and several banks also offer insurance policies.

When it comes to insurance, it’s a business of trust. And when you buy this insurance as an expat, you need to make sure that the insurance company actually pays your claims. So, the insurance company needs to have both a good reputation and financial stability. Aside from that, you’ll make sure that the policies they offer you fit your need and budget.

However, to help you find the right match, we’ve compiled the best international health insurance companies for expats in Thailand. Although health insurance is not quite popular in Thailand, especially for Thais, and this is because they’re covered with Social Security insurance by the Thai government.

If you’ve been surfing the internet to get the right international health insurance company, you’ve come to the right place. We offer expatriates a wide range of health care plans suitable for both expats and Thai nationals residing in the country. Moreover, our plans are designed to ensure excellent coverage.

Guess what! We will walk you through the benefits of having health insurance in Thailand. Not only that, but you’ll also know how much it cost an expat. I’m sure you’d love to know more about this international health insurance and all that it entails? If that sounds like a yes, read further for the details.

Understanding Health Insurance in Thailand

If you’ve moved to Thailand, you can rest assured that you’ll be well taken care of when there are any medical emergencies. This is due to the fact that the healthcare systems, as well as public health insurance in Thailand, are both of excellent quality. In fact, you can use this to avoid waiting times.

And for those who wish to have access to a more seamless healthcare experience, the private sector of Thai medical insurance is always an option for emigrants. Moreover, this kind of health insurance is different from the Thailand travel insurance that covers tourists and visitors only for travel-related events.

Now, expats in Thailand have the following options for health insurance, depending on their resident status. Without further ado, let’s quickly check the concept of public Thailand health insurance for working expats and private health insurance in the country.

Thailand Health Insurance for Working Expat

This program is meant for expat who are currently employed in Thailand. And this expat must have enrolled in the Universal Coverage Scheme (UCS) that provides free healthcare through contributions but deducted from the employee’s salary.

Thailand Private Health Insurance

Foreigners who are not employed or those who want health coverage in private hospitals can purchase this private medical insurance scheme, either local or international. In addition, expats who retire in Thailand will have to subscribe to a private insurance plan or pay the costs from their own pocket. Continue reading to see the list of the best international insurance companies we’ve unleashed for you.

Thailand Public Health Insurance System

Undoubtedly, working expats in Thailand will definitely have access to free public healthcare through contributions to the Universal Coverage Scheme (UCS). Aside from this fact, all workers in Thailand contribute 5 percent of their salaries to the Thai social security scheme to cover their insurance.

Meanwhile, when you enroll in the public healthcare system, you will be assigned to a hospital, in which you’re likely to receive free treatments. So, if you go to another hospital in the long run, you’ll have to pay with your own money. In no time, take a look at the benefits of public health insurance in Thailand.

• Medical services in Thailand are of good quality since the doctors in public hospitals are highly skilled.
• Expat doesn’t have to pay anything extra, as your contributions to social security cover it.
• Using the public health insurance system in Thailand is just like showing your insurance card to the hospital staff
• The average international Private Medical Insurance (IPM) premium for expats in Thailand is roughly $2,000 per year, while the IPMI premium amounts to $10,000 for families.
• Thailand’s healthcare system was once ranked sixth in its 2019 list of countries with the best healthcare system.

5 Lessons from Thailand Healthcare Coverage

As of today’s 21^st century, Thailand’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) scheme has led to dramatic improvements in various health parameters, including infant mortality rates and life expectancy. With that being said, expat moving to this country would enjoy good healthcare and insurance facilities. More so, we’ve compiled the five lessons from Thailand’s healthcare coverage for expat to know better.

1.    Use the Right Strategy

The Thailand government has been doing wonderful by having one of the best healthcare systems in Asia. This aided in curbing the cost escalation and improving the quality of care for both locals and foreigners. Moreover, for ease of monitoring, the country has leverage technology extensively.

2.    Dare to Innovate in Thailand

Thailand’s innovative policy that dealt with generic medication production has continued to increase in recent years. As a low-middle-income country, Thailand’s innovation in the healthcare system has become an inspiration for both developed and developing countries, seeking to improve the health outcomes of their citizens at a controlled cost.

3.    Extensive Geography Reach

There are tons of factors that have worked in favor of the country’s UHC. And the most important one is, arguably, the extensive geographical reach with the functional primary healthcare system. The successful Thailand government has invested in the health workforce and infrastructure to ensure long-term sustainability and assurance. Moreover, the policymakers came up with amendments to attend to more patients, locally and internationally.

4.    Affordable Healthcare Insurance Policy

Developing nations like Thailand have improved immensely when it comes to the healthcare system and insurance policy. Using evidence-based decision-making policy, expats would definitely enjoy the affordable healthcare system. This way, many policymakers can adopt the method to improve access and equity.

5.    Insurance Eligibility Coverage

Thailand’s social security program is among the healthcare options for expat. Besides, expat not covered by social security should obtain private medical insurance programs to cover their medical needs and emergencies. Meanwhile, short visitors like tourists to Thailand can get private travel medical insurance to keep them from being out of pocket for medical expenses.

Top International Health Insurance Companies in Thailand

With Thailand gaining recognition for its healthcare system in recent years, the benefits of relocating to this country cannot be overemphasized. If you check our previous post, you’ll get a glimpse of what living in Thailand entails. On the flip side, we’re here to walk you through the best international health insurance.

Cigna Global International

Cigna global international is one of the most affordable international insurance companies in Thailand. While they are comparably cheaper, this company does provide some great insurance options and excellent customer service. Aside from this fact, they offer a modular plan design that allows foreigners to tailor their plans to their needs and budgets.

In recent years, they introduced Cigna Global Health Thailand, tailored to provide a quality healthcare system for expats living in the country. Aside from health insurance, they also offer travel insurance, personal accident insurance, and critical illness insurance.

Dhipaya Insurance Company

With research and proper methodology from an experienced expat living in Thailand for over six years, Dhipaya has emerged as one of the largest insurance companies in the country. They provide endless insurance facilities for both locals and foreigners. Additionally, Dhipaya offers a wide range of other insurance types, including personal accident insurance, health insurance, property insurance, and others.

Luma Health Insurance Company

Among the top ten insurance companies in Thailand, Luma also made it to the list. They offer a wide selection of health insurance, including family and company plans and individual plan. Aside from that, their comprehensive health insurance includes inpatient care, cancer care, and even maternity care. On top of that, the Luma health insurance also offers excellent benefits, including member privileges and social-medical options from your in-house expat foreigner. Additionally, they provide COVID-19 insurance to enter Thailand and travel insurance, providing great medical coverage.

Furthermore, Luma also promotes prevention aside from covering your medical bills. Again, they educate their members on how to look after themselves and maintain cleanliness and healthiness.

Pacific Cross Health Insurance Company

For emigrants looking for an affordable international healthcare insurance company, look no further as Pacific Cross is the right option. One of the best things about this company is that they have an expat department, so clients who can only speak English are well-taken care of. Not only that, but they also provide worldwide assistance for their members.

This international health insurance company is also an excellent choice if you prefer cashless claims. In fact, they have about 300 network hospitals in Thailand and a few across Southeast Asia. Therefore, make sure you compare their services with others if you want to pick the most affordable one.

NZI Healthcare Insurance Company

NZI Health insurance company has made it to the top of our list. It’s a company that operates under Safety Insurance, and it’s one of the biggest insurance companies in Thailand. They offer world-class coverage service provided by two of the world’s largest insurance groups. While they can have a local English and Thai-speaking team for your convenience, they take policyholders up to 74 years of age. Also, their price may be high but they do have excellent coverage and world-class service.

MSH International Health Insurance

MSH has a good reputation, and this is because they’re among the leading insurance companies in Thailand. If you want the gold standard of insurance as an expat, MSH is definitely what you should go for. As an international company, they have different language speakers that would assist you no matter where you come from.

On the flip side, the MSH international health insurance has higher premiums while they maintain a good track record and also offer cashless claims in some selected Thailand hospitals. Also, they have full cancer cover under all plans with no restrictions and caps. Again, expat will have the freedom to choose the treatment they want, whether in Thailand or any country of your coverage.

Bupa International Insurance Company

The name ‘Bupa’ is among the international health companies in Thailand. Research also made it known that it’s impossible to check out the best international health insurance companies without mentioning the Bupa firm. They specialize in different insurance programs and policies, including illness/accidents, healthcare gain, and many others, to mention a few. While people consider Bupa as the most expensive, they offer plans that range from budget to premium.

Challenges Faced by Thailand’s Healthcare Insurance

Compared to Singapore, which has one of the best healthcare systems in Asia, there are many challenges faced by Thailand’s insurance policy. As impeccable as it may seem, the Thailand international health care system is faced with many concerns. Without further ado, here are the challenges as of 2021.

Aging population in Growing Economy

The surge in the aging population, longer life expectancy, and the decline in the working population has put enormous pressure on Thailand economy and its healthcare/welfare system. If this trend follows, Thailand might have the highest shares of elderly people among East Asia and the pacific.

As for the decline working population, the report predicts that there will be a 10 percent decline in the working population by 2040. This means elderly citizens are more likely to develop chronic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and more. So, in due time, the aging population can affect expats.

Increasing Financial Pressure

This factor, inclusive, is among the major challenges faced by Thailand’s healthcare system. And it has made more people question the sustainability of the Thai healthcare system. However, these pressures do not stem only from long-term care expenditure for the aging population but also emerge from the diminishing general tax revenue in Thailand.

Increasing Healthcare Costs

The increasing healthcare cost is another factor that has increasingly impactful worldwide and shows no signs of abating to that Thailand system. While medical breakthroughs allow for better effective treatments, they typically require large capital injections for relevant medicines as well as equipment. So, increasing healthcare costs could also hinder the effective healthcare system in the country.

Top 7 Tips on Staying Healthy in Thailand

While Thailand is an excellent travel destination for expat and near the top of many people’s travel bucket lists, it’s essential to consider the various health risk concerns before jumping on an airplane bound for paradise. In no time, below are the top seven tips on staying healthy in Thailand today.

Before Travelling to Thailand

Fortunately, Thailand is relatively safe to travel for an expat. And, if travelers are sensible, there’s no reason why the majority of health issues and safety concerns cannot be avoided. While it is normal for travelers to worry about contracting the COVID-19, safety precautions should be taken into consideration. When you travel to Thailand, it is suggested that you consult with your General Practitioner.

Routine Vaccination

Whether you’re traveling to Thailand for business, for leisure, or whether you’re a long-term expatriate worker, vaccinations should be among the essential aspect of your pre-travel preparation. This will ensure that your health is protected from coronavirus and other health risks while traveling around the Land of Smile.

Prepare your Yellow fever Certificate

Always know that there’s no risk of yellow fever in Thailand, but a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required by the Thai government for travelers older than nine months of age. This means a yellow fever vaccination is also needed for travelers who have transited longer than 12 hours through a country’s airport with the risk of yellow fever transmission.

Take Antimalaria medication to infected Areas

If you’re moving to this country for the first time, we advise you to take antimalaria medication if you’re heading to infected areas. While the majority of Thailand, fortunately, has low to no risk of malaria, there are others areas of the country that are of higher risk. Therefore, when you’re planning to travel, it’s obviously recommended that you take the prescribed antimalarial medication.

Stray Away from Stray Dogs

Due to the high prevalence of street dogs and wild monkeys in some parts of the country, it is also best to avoid contact with animals to minimize the risk of contracting rabies. Moreover, if rabies is left untreated, a bit of medical advice is to sought-immediately after any animal bite or even a lick from an infected animal.

Always Use a Sunscreen

Sun exposure is also a crucial thing for expat to be mindful of. Also, sunscreen and constantly reapplying is essential when island-hopping, swimming, snorkeling, or just sightseeing around the various cities. Aside from this fact, but covering up exposed skin with loose clothes, hats and sunglasses will also help with sunburn while living in Thailand.

Stay Well Hydrated and Carry Layers

Another tip to avoid heatstroke while traveling is to stay hydrated. When you’ve landed in this country, ensure that you drink plenty of safe drinking water to prevent swelling of the feet and ankles, excessive sweating, and muscle cramps due to strenuous activity in the heat of the day. Aside from this fact, carry layers with you to protect from air-conditioning and keep your body warm or cool.

Frequently Asked Questions about Health Insurance

Is healthcare in Thailand good?

Of course, the healthcare system in Thailand is undoubtedly good, especially in Bangkok. In fact, many doctors and other specialists speak English, but the standard of the healthcare system deteriorates considerably in rural areas. However, one peculiarity of the system which expats might encounter is that it’s often easier to find a specialist than a GP.

What Should I avoid in Thailand?

As an expat, always know that you’ll be spoiled for choice during your visit to Thailand. This is because; there’s so much to do. On the other hand, there are many things to avoid as a foreigner moving to this country for the first time. They include; swimming at the southern Andaman, hiring a motorbike, going to a tiger or animal shows, riding an elephant, overstaying your visa, arguing with Thai police, and more.

Is Bangkok safe to walk around at night?

Undoubtedly, Bangkok is safe to walk around at any time. On the flip side, be wary of the things to avoid while living in the country. But, you’re covered by the uniform men if you follow the right part to your visa application and when you have a valid passport.

Is Bangkok safe for female tourists?

Just like we said earlier, Bangkok is definitely safe for travelers of all genders and even compared to other megacities across the world. As a female traveler, you can wear almost anything you want, roam the city on a whim, and even go clubbing on your own.

What can I wear in Thailand?

The basic rule is to cover your shoulders and knees. Aside from that, you can wear anything you feel comfortable within Thailand. On the bottom, wear long shorts, capris, or a knee-length or longer skirt. For more information about what to wear in Thailand, you can refer to our article about living in Thailand.

What does it cost to see a doctor?

Well, in Thailand, you should expect to pay around 300 to 500 baht per outpatient visit when going to a government hospital. However, it would be better to apply for health insurance as this would likely cover your bills in the country. Meanwhile, be expecting to pay up to 1,500 to 2,000 baht if you visit a private hospital.

Conclusion

There are more than a few ways to enjoy Thailand as an expat. We have explored the safety, health insurance, and expat guide to help you move to the country with ease. So, would you love to know more about the living or relocation process to Thailand? Well, it’s high time you read through our previous post!