Renowned for its advanced healthcare and medical facilities, Thailand has established itself as a key player in the global health tourism sector, providing high-quality medical and health services at affordable rates. The country’s network of approximately 400 private hospitals is rigorous in their ongoing drive to bolster their technological prowess and staff skills to match international standards. Undoubtedly, the pivotal role private hospitals play in providing excellent healthcare services to foreign visitors contributes to Thailand’s appeal on the medical tourism map.
Dr. Chalerm Harnpanich, the esteemed President of the Private Hospitals Association, elaborated on this relationship during his speech at the “Medical Fair Thailand 2023” held on September 13. Dr. Harnpanich underscored how medical tourism constitutes a significant proportion of the revenue earned by private hospitals. This high-profile event, which continued until September 15, was hosted by the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre (Bitec).
Statistics from the Global Wellness Institute reveal a buoyant future for the wellness tourism market. Predicted to expand annually at the healthy rate of 20%, this dynamic sector’s worth is projected to impressively reach a hefty US$7 trillion by 2025. Parallelly, the medical industry of Thailand, identified as one of the 12 new S-curve industries, is also on a path of steady growth.
In the regional landscape, though Singapore poses a strong competition, Thailand distinguishes itself by offering budget-friendly healthcare services without compromising quality. Patients from the Middle East and Asean countries form the primary customer base for Thailand’s health and medical services. These visitors primarily travel for treatments related to heart diseases and cancer, reflecting the expertise Thailand has developed in these areas.
It’s also worth noting the good reputation Thailand has earned from Chinese patients, who tend to seek services related to anti-ageing, cosmetic surgery, and fertility treatments. Further contributing to the flourishing healthcare industry are a robust community of foreign expatriates. Predominantly from Europe, America and Japan, these expats have come to rely on the stellar services provided by private hospitals in Thailand.
In conclusion, Thailand’s ascendance in the world of medical tourism can be attributed to its continuous commitment to enhancing health services, by aligning with international standards, boosting technology and focusing on skill development. This has undoubtedly cemented the country’s position as a preferred destination for affordable and high-quality healthcare.
Be First to Comment