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Mutuelle Thaïlande : An essential guide for Expatriates

Moving to Thailand is an exciting prospect for many expatriates, attracted by the country’s quality of life and dynamism. However, choosing the right health insurance in Thailand is essential for optimum protection against unforeseen medical events. This guide will help you understand what’s at stake and make the right choice for effective health cover.

Understanding the Thai healthcare system

Thailand’s healthcare system is renowned for its quality, attracting expatriates and medical tourists alike. It is divided into two main categories: public and private. Public hospitals, while affordable, can sometimes involve long waiting times, and the language barrier can complicate exchanges if staff don’t speak English. Private hospitals offer modern infrastructures, quality service and staff who often speak English, making treatment much easier. However, these advantages come at a cost, often much higher than in the public sector.

Why take out health insurance in Thailand?

For expatriates, there are several reasons why it’s important to take out suitable health insurance.

• High cost of private care: Private hospitals are of very high quality, but the cost is very high. For example, a consultation with a general practitioner costs between €25 and €76, and a day’s hospitalization in a single room starts at €80.
• Access to healthcare: Without health insurance, it’s not uncommon for some hospitals to ask for a deposit before admitting you. In some cases, access to non-emergency treatment may even be denied.
• Legal obligations: Since 2019, Thailand has required foreign retirees to take out private health insurance to obtain or renew an O-A or O-X non-immigrant visa. This insurance must cover a minimum of THB 40,000 (approx. €1,058) for outpatient treatment and THB 400,000 (approx. €10,580) for hospitalization.

Expatriate Insurance Options

Expatriates have two main options:

1. Local health insurance: These generally do not cover treatment outside Thailand, so you can only be treated in this country. This can be a constraint for expatriates who travel regularly. Reimbursement rates are frequently low.
2. International health insurance: This type of insurance provides extensive health cover, including medical expenses outside Thailand. It offers greater flexibility. Reimbursement rates are high, as is access to a network of healthcare professionals.

Caisse des Français de l’Étranger (CFE)

For French expatriates, the Caisse des Français de l’Étranger (CFE) offers coverage similar to that of Sécurité Sociale in France. Thanks to the CFE, you can continue to be reimbursed for your medical expenses both in France and in Thailand. However, for more comprehensive coverage tailored to your specific needs abroad, it’s often advisable to add international health insurance. This guarantees peace of mind in the face of the unexpected, wherever you may be.

Plan your Health Protection

Rather than limiting yourself to a few selection criteria, adopt a strategic approach to your health insurance in Thailand:

• Anticipate risks: Consider scenarios such as medical emergencies, long-term treatment or specialized care to choose appropriate coverage.
• Analyze benefits: Review the benefits included and assess their relevance: dental care, general medicine, hospitalization, etc.
• Transparency: Opt for a health mutual that clearly explains its terms of reimbursement, exclusions and ancillary costs.
• Support in the event of repatriation: Choose a complementary health insurance plan that includes assistance for emergency repatriation. This is essential for expatriates living far from their families.

By choosing the right health insurance, you’ll be able to enjoy your expatriation to Thailand with peace of mind, while having access to quality care. Take the time to compare options and subscribe to an offer that meets your present and future needs.