The Top 7 Health Insurance Providers

Health insurance is something that everyone needs if they are living in Thailand. Although healthcare is quite cheap in comparison to the west, you can quickly accumulate a bill for thousands of dollars in no time at all if something serious happens. Usually, it comes in two forms, inpatient only cover and comprehensive cover. In Thailand, most expats opt for inpatient only cover due to the fact that it is more cost-effective. Cover is provided by local providers as well as those specialising in cover for expats.

AXA Health Insurance

One of the cheaper policies but something that is certainly better than nothing at all. This is locally provided insurance that offers minimal cover but is accepted in all hospitals. If you did have this level of cover it is advisable to get treated at one of the cheaper hospitals as opposed to Bangkok Hospital, Pattaya.

BUPA Thailand

BUPA Thailand is probably one of the best-known insurance providers offering a reasonable level of coverage. Some of the very basic packages are probably best to be avoided by expats due to the lack of cover but the more comprehensive packages are sufficient for most people. One major advantage is that they are recognised throughout Thailand.

Pacific Cross

Pacific Cross Thailand is another of the well-known local providers. They offer a range of policies for both Thais and expats with some having the facility to include a large deductible (excess). They are recognised by all hospitals and have a good reputation when it comes to claims although once again it is wise to have the higher cover as the cheaper policies can leave you woefully short.

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April

April are a French company with offices in Bangkok. Their policies are specifically aimed at expats with one policy even aimed at those living in southeast Asia. With the advantage of being able to pay monthly and having far greater cover than any local providers, April are the ideal choice for younger expatriates and their families. The insurance is accepted by all major hospitals and they have people in Thailand to help with your claims and liaise with healthcare providers.

Healthcare International

Healthcare International are a London based company who specialise in offering expat health insurance. The major advantage with their policies is that a large deductible (US$2,000) on their Emergency Plus Plan which greatly reduces the cost whilst still offering ample coverage. The downside is that they have no offices in Thailand, only brokers, which can delay treatment being agreed or claims taking time to process. Also, although they are recognised by major hospitals some are not familiar with them which can cause unwarranted stress.

Regency For Expats

Previously know as Principle, Regency offer some fantastic healthcare packages to expats. Once again, a company with offices in Bangkok they have an excellent reputation for dealing with claims. Although their prices are slightly more expensive, you do receive the peace of mind that all major conditions will be covered (as long as they are not pre-existing prior to cover).

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William Russell

The all singing, all dancing insurance policy. This is the sort of policy that you should take out if you want to be covered for absolutely everything. It is naturally a very expensive insurance policy but it does come with peace of mind and you can be safe in the knowledge that you with covered anywhere in the world (excluding the US and Hong Kong with some policies).