The easiest mess to deal with is one that has been prevented. The best way to avoid medical bills is to maintain a healthy life. If that plan fails, or an accident and injury happen, medical insurance is the safety net to keep you from falling into financial ruin.
My heredity is something I cannot prevent. I am susceptible to heart disease from my father and grandfather. That is a battle lost in the past. The fight I can carry into the future is how well I take care of myself. I am 52 and recently had a 100-point health check including all major points of concern and more.
In every category, I was “in the green”. That does not erase the need for a safety net like private health insurance. Living in Thailand is beautiful, wonderful, and dangerous. I have never felt freer. There is so much to see and do, wonderful happy people who steer clear of confrontation but drive roads like a rally circuit.
We have access to excellent hospitals and world-class doctors, but the services are not cheap. One room overnight at a Bumrungrad or Bangkok Hospital with services will cost 15,000-60,000 THB. Public hospitals are less expensive, but the facilities are significantly less comfortable.
I have used both here. I tend to take flu symptoms or minor injuries I cannot tend to myself to a public clinic. I have been blessed with no need for greater medical assistance during my decade here. I am certain as I age, my needs will change. Be sure you are ready for life’s changes.
When booking a doctor’s visit, obviously not an emergency, there are some key questions you need to have answered to be clear on the services you need and what they offer. Take the time to ask and get answers before arrival. It will save you hours on a spectrum of tests, and focus on the real issue.
Is the doctor accepting new patients? What services do they provide related to your needs? What documents should you bring? Are there any preparations you need to make for testing? What are the payment options? These are only a few that will prepare you and them for a smooth visit.
English is a widely used language here, some of the reception nurses may not be as fluent and it can cause frustration. You can be sure to get clear answers before your appointment by calling with the questions above.
It seems counterintuitive to save time by arriving early, somehow it works. I want them to have all the time they need to attend to my body and its needs completely and in an unrushed manner. These steps put you at ease, but more importantly it puts the Thai staff at ease.
Do not be another example of a foreigner displaying impatience. This is an opportunity to create new and beneficial relationships with medical professionals and all observers. Would you like to show up to smiles and warm welcome or a deep breath from them in preparation to deal with you?
Your health and wellness efforts with quality insurance prepare you for the best results possible. Does your visa require insurance?
