Capital city in Vientiane Prefecture, Laos
Healthcare in Vientiane: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Vientiane
Facilities are basic. Serious cases are usually sent to Udon Thani or Bangkok in Thailand; evacuation insurance is strongly advised.
Hospitals for foreigners in Vientiane
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Alliance International Medical Centre | Private clinic; popular with expats |
| Mahosot Hospital | Public hospital; crowded and basic |
| AEK Udon International Hospital (Thailand) | Used for serious cases across the border |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: ₭300,000–800,000 ($13–36) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Laos: Care is basic; private clinics in Vientiane handle minor problems. Serious cases cross to Thailand (Udon Thani or Bangkok), so evacuation cover is essential.
- Pharmacies: Pharmacies are common in towns but quality varies; bring regular medicines from home.
- Health spending: US$27 per person a year (2023); 0.3 doctors per 1,000 people (2022), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 1191 · Ambulance 1195 · Fire 1190.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter Laos, 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 Vientiane for foreigners?
Alliance International Medical Centre: Private clinic; popular with expats
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Vientiane?
About ₭300,000–800,000 ($13–36) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Laos?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in Laos expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about Vientiane
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Sources
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 Spotted something out of date?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.