The cost of health insurance is the talk of the town, as premiums have crept up, and people’s needs have changed in Thailand.

We all know that securing health insurance offers peace of mind and security for everyone, including expat teachers in Thailand. While many schools offer group health insurance coverage, some benefits may not be available or sufficient for your needs. 

If you want to top up your existing plan, you should learn about the average cost of health insurance and trends. Continue reading as I go over some of the latest findings from our Cost of International Health Insurance Report.

Thailand’s premiums have increased but remain the lowest in the region

In our report, we learned that the average international private medical insurance (IPMI) premium for individuals was USD $2,035, while family health plans cost on average USD $7,367. Compared to the year before, these figures have increased by 5% and 2%, respectively, and is likely due to the fact that COVID-related/OIC mandated cover is compulsory for all onshore insurers in Thailand. 

But despite an increase in premiums for 2021-2022, Thailand still features at the bottom of our ranking of 100 locations around the globe for the cost of IPMI plans. This is reassuring given that countries like the US have an average premium of USD $7,431 and $20,929 for individual and family plans. A massive difference indeed.

Now that you know the cost of health insurance premiums for individuals and families in Thailand, I advise keeping tabs on the premiums to assess the market better and determine a suitable plan if you decide to top up or supplement your existing benefits.

Demand for health insurance from foreign arrivals remains high

I’m sure that the COVID-19 pandemic has put your health front and center, and you’re probably aware of all the extra and increased costs of getting treatment in Thailand. Even foreign arrivals are putting their health first by ensuring they get a comprehensive health plan. Currently, it’s also a mandatory requirement to secure health insurance before entering the Kingdom.

Personally, I believe that foreign teachers looking to teach in the Kingdom would also like extra security, given how group health plans may not be as sufficient. This is because everyone is different, and a one-size-fits-all group health plan that schools generally offer may not meet everyone’s specific needs.

To learn more, download our free report for more trends in Thailand and around the globe.

Get in touch

If you’d like to talk more about your health insurance options in Thailand or about securing travel insurance or individual insurance, you’re more than welcome to email me at ajarn@pacificprime.co.th or contact my team at Pacific Prime Thailand - a leading health insurance brokerage catering to expats and foreigners in the country.