Free Covid-19 testing and treatment in Thailand


Covid-19 patients in Thailand have had to pay large sums to private hospitals, despite the government’s announcement about free Covid-19 testing and treatment for all Thais earlier last month.

On 5th May 2021, an update was announced. All Thais posing a high-risk of contracting Covid-19 are eligible to have their hospital bills covered. In addition, private hospitals must not ask for advanced payment.

We take you through a summary of the current social security protocol for Covid-19 patients in Thailand, as well as what is expected to change.

Thailand’s Covid-19 response efforts:


No deposit required for Covid-19 patients anymore


Hospitals were asked to refrain from asking Covid-19 patients to pay a deposit for their treatment whilst waiting for social security benefits to kick in, said Dr. Jadej Thammatach-areem, Secretary-General of National Health Security Office (NHSO), reported Prachatai

The payment system has been streamlined so hospitals can contact NHSO directly for reimbursements, issued every two weeks.

Medical institutions will also be able to contact NHSO via hotline numbers to seek further information.

no deposit hositalsImage credit: PR Bangkok via Prachatai

NHSO will be responsible for all the medical bills relating to Covid-19 in both public and private hospitals, according to the announcement.

All Thais who have been exposed to the virus or are recommended for Covid-19 tests by a doctor can receive free tests.

They’ll also receive free treatment if the test comes out positive, added Dr. Thammatach-aree.

Current protocol states that hospital arrangements will be made according to the severity of patients’ symptoms and the availability of doctors at each medical centre.

In order to ensure a smooth process for all, the public was asked to cooperate by not requesting for special rooms, extra nurses, or specify their choice of hospital.


Covering Covid-19 medical expenses for citizens


We are happy to see that the government is covering Covid-19 medical expenses for their citizens.

In other words, Thailand has its people’s backs and it is exactly what we want to hear in times of uncertainty.

More Covid-19 related news:


Cover image adapted from: Pixabay (Left),Sukhumvit Hospital (Right)

Enjoying The Smart Local Thailand? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more stories like this.

Drop us your email so you won't miss the latest news.