Island in Surat Thani, Thailand
Healthcare in Koh Samui: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Koh Samui
Private care is good but pricey; very serious cases fly to Bangkok. Also the referral hub for Koh Phangan and Koh Tao.
Hospitals for foreigners in Koh Samui
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Bangkok Hospital Samui | Main private hospital, Chaweng; serves Phangan and Tao too |
| Koh Samui Hospital | Public hospital in Nathon; cheaper, longer waits |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: ฿1,000–3,000 ($30–89) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Thailand: Excellent private hospitals in Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai at well below Western prices; public hospitals are cheap but crowded. Insurance matters: private bills add up quickly.
- Pharmacies: Pharmacies (Boots, Watsons, Fascino, local shops) are everywhere; many medicines are sold over the counter with pharmacist advice.
- Health spending: US$327 per person a year (2023); 0.5 doctors per 1,000 people (2021), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 191 · Ambulance 1669 · Fire 199 · Tourist police 1155.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter Thailand, but treatment for visitors is paid upfront.
| Insurer | Good for |
|---|---|
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Monthly subscription for nomads and long trips; cancel anytime. |
| Genki | Health insurance for nomads, from a European insurer. |
| World Nomads | Trip insurance that covers many adventure activities. |
| Heymondo | Single-trip, annual and long-stay plans with a medical app. |
| IMG Global | Travel medical and long-term international health plans. |
Quick answers
What is the best hospital in Koh Samui for foreigners?
Bangkok Hospital Samui: Main private hospital, Chaweng; serves Phangan and Tao too
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Koh Samui?
About ฿1,000–3,000 ($30–89) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Thailand?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in Thailand expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about Koh Samui
Going to Koh Samui solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Koh Samui meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.
Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Thailand
- Bangkok Hospital Samui
- Lomprayah ferries
- Seatran Discovery ferries
- Raja Ferry
- Grab Thailand service areas
SoloSquare has no commercial relationship with the insurers listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.