Island in Surat Thani, Thailand
Healthcare in Koh Tao: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Koh Tao
Basic care and a hyperbaric chamber support divers. Serious cases move to Samui or Bangkok; make sure insurance covers diving and evacuation.
Hospitals for foreigners in Koh Tao
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Koh Tao Hospital | Small public hospital in Mae Haad |
| Bangkok Hospital Samui | Private; serious cases transfer by speedboat or air |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: ฿800–2,500 ($24–75) 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 Tao for foreigners?
Koh Tao Hospital: Small public hospital in Mae Haad
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Koh Tao?
About ฿800–2,500 ($24–75) 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 Tao
Going to Koh Tao solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Koh Tao 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
- Tourism Authority of Thailand
- Lomprayah ferries
- Bangkok Hospital Samui
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 Spotted something out of date?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.