Health
What to do in a medical emergency as an expat in Thailand
Handling a medical emergency in Thailand as an expat can be difficult without the right information. This guide explains what to do in a medical emergency, including important contact numbers, the differences between public and private hospitals, how to deal with language barriers, and why...
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Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD): A growing health concern you shouldn’t ignore
What comes to your mind when you hear ‘liver disease’? Most people would think of heavy drinkers or those with a history of viral hepatitis. But what about those who rarely, if ever, drink alcohol? Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD), previously called Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), is an under-recognised condition rapidly becoming a …
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Buriram: Elderly man falls critically ill after eating raw pork salad
A 73 year old man from the Nang Rong district in Buriram province was hospitalised after consuming raw pork salad with fresh blood. He experienced vomiting, bloody diarrhoea, and extreme weakness. A concerned relative discovered him and contacted emergency services yesterday, January 9 for immediate medical attention. His condition remains critical at Nang Rong Hospital …
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Phuket’s healthcare crisis: PM pushes for cancer centre
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra spotlighted healthcare as a critical issue for Phuket, amid public outcry and fundraising efforts to improve cancer treatment facilities on the island. At a high-level meeting held at Phuket International Airport this morning, the 38 year old Thai PM addressed the urgent need to upgrade state hospitals like Vachira Phuket Hospital …
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Blackpink’s Lisa brings the Thai par-TEA to the US
Pop sensation Lalisa Manoban, better known as Lisa from Blackpink has done it again, proving she’s the ultimate soft power queen by taking Thai tea globally. From promoting Thailand’s iconic meatballs to elevating fried egg rice, Lisa is now bringing the nation’s beloved iced tea to the world stage in a way no one saw …
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Krabi snake catcher bitten by king cobra draws public support
The well-known snake catcher in Krabi is receiving support from the public after getting bitten by a giant king cobra. The incident left Sutee “Bung Cha” Naewhat in a serious condition and at risk of losing his arm. The story has gained a lot of attention given his dedication to helping others over the past …
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Thai health minister reassures public over hMPV concerns
Thai Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin addressed concerns about the spread of the human metapneumovirus (hMPV) in China yesterday, January 6 at the Department of Health Service Support. The minister explained that hMPV is a seasonal virus that occurs annually and is self-limiting, often resolving without medical intervention. In previous years, such common illnesses were …
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DDC issues raw pork warning as infection cases surge
People are strongly urged to avoid consuming raw or undercooked pork to safeguard against infection from streptococcus suis, also known as hearing loss fever, which can be life-threatening. This advisory comes in response to reports of a rise in cases during the recent extended holiday period in certain provinces. Doctor Taweechai Visanuyothin, Department of Disease …
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Heart-stopping error: Patient sent to the wrong hospital by volunteer
The National Institute for Emergency Medicine (NIEM) is investigating a recent incident involving a red uniform volunteer who allegedly delayed critical heart treatment by transporting a patient to the wrong hospital. The issue arose after the patient’s relatives reported an emergency on December 28 through the 1669 hotline, expecting advanced ambulance care due to the …
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Thailand expands 30-baht healthcare scheme nationwide
Thailand has extended its Treatment Anywhere 30-baht universal healthcare scheme to cover the entire nation, with the initiative now active in the remaining 31 provinces. This marks the completion of the scheme’s fourth and final phase since being introduced by the National Health Security Office (NHSO). According to Athaporn Limpanylers, deputy secretary-general of the NHSO, …
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6 year old girl’s eye donation brings hope to transplant patients
The selfless act of organ donation continues to save lives, with increasing numbers of people choosing to donate their organs. Recently, a poignant story emerged involving a six year old girl whose family decided to donate her eyes to help patients awaiting transplants. This story was shared by the Thai Red Cross Society, underscoring the …
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MedPark Hospital receives PM’s Export Award, a prideful end to 2024
Doctor Pongpat Pathanavanich, managing director of MedPark Hospital, proudly accepted the Prime Minister’s Export Award 2024 (PM’s Export Award) on behalf of the hospital. MedPark was recognised with the Best Service Enterprise Award in the Health & Wellness category, encompassing hospitals, specialised medical centres, and clinics. The award ceremony was presided over by Pichai Naripthaphan, …
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How much does it cost to see a doctor in Thailand?
Thailand is known for its high-quality yet affordable healthcare system, but how much does it really cost to see a doctor? As an expat, this question might be crucial for budgeting your health needs. The answer depends on whether you have health insurance or not, and the difference can be significant. Let’s explore the costs, …
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Thai health ministry warns against fake medical certificates
The Thai Ministry of Public Health has issued a stern warning to medical facilities against issuing fake medical certificates to foreign workers. Such actions could result in severe penalties, including a maximum two-year prison sentence and a 40,000 baht fine. Phanuwat Panket, Director-General of the Department of Health Service Support (HSS), expressed concerns about potential …
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Maharaj Hospital seeks blood donations for new year prep
Maharaj Hospital in Nakhon Ratchasima is gearing up for the new year celebrations by preparing medical personnel, ambulances, and emergency vehicles for the critical Seven Dangerous Days. However, the hospital is facing a shortage of 400 units of blood and is urgently seeking donations. The deputy director of Maharaj Hospital, Jedsada Bun-Ya-Wong-Viroj, has disclosed plans …
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Is tap water in Thailand safe to consume?
Wondering if you can drink the tap water in Thailand? From brushing your teeth to filling up a bottle, it’s helpful to understand a few basics. Tap water safety in Thailand varies by location, and while some people use it without issue, others avoid it completely. Here’s a guide on what’s safe, what’s not. How …
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Experts warn ‘safety first’ as couples get rompy during Christmas
The Christmas holiday season often sees an uptick in certain types of injuries, with experts noting a significant rise in sex-related mishaps, including a dramatic 234% increase in searches for “penile fracture” on Google during this festive period. Research from FeetFinder highlights that the festive spirit might lead to some unexpected outcomes in the bedroom. …
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Thailand takes measures to curb bird flu amid regional outbreaks
Public health officials in Thailand are ramping up measures to prevent the spread of bird flu within the country amid increasing cases in neighbouring regions and a recent outbreak in the US. The Department of Disease Control (DDC), along with the Livestock Department and the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation (DNP), is …
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NHSO delays cancer care reimbursement changes to April
The National Health Security Office (NHSO) has decided to delay the implementation of new budget reimbursement criteria for hospitals involved in the Cancer Treatment Anywhere (CA) programme. This postponement aims to address existing reimbursement issues through upcoming discussions. Dr Athaporn Limpanylers, deputy secretary-general of the NHSO, announced yesterday, December 24, that revisions will be made …
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Cholera claims three lives, infects 450 near Thai-Myanmar border
Cholera has claimed three lives and left around 450 people infected in the Myanmar region bordering Mae Sot district in Tak province. Officals have issued warnings for increased vigilance regarding hygiene and food preparation to prevent further outbreaks. Cholera, a severe diarrhoeal disease, has caused significant health concerns in the area, with the first reports …
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A Hollywood smile, a Thai price: Thailand’s dental solution
Have you ever dreamed of flashing a perfect Hollywood smile but thought the price tag was out of reach? What if we told you that in Thailand, you could achieve those pearly whites without emptying your wallet? Yes, people from around the globe are turning to affordable dental care in Thailand. From veneers and implants …
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This Christmas, give the gift of health: essential options for expats in Thailand
The holiday season is here, bringing warmth, joy, and a chance to reflect on the year gone by. As an expat in Thailand, this Christmas is a great time to invest in something that truly matters: health. Whether for you or your loved ones, prioritising health ensures security and peace of mind in the long …
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Thailand health ministry warns of new year disease risks
The Ministry of Public Health issued a warning about diseases to watch out for during the new year, particularly influenza and sudden hearing loss. They urged travellers to monitor their health upon returning from trips abroad. With the weather cooling down and many people travelling internationally, the Department of Disease Control (DDC) has updated its …
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Norovirus outbreak in Rayong prompts health guidelines
The Department of Health issued guidelines for preventing the spread of Norovirus following a significant outbreak affecting 1,436 individuals, including students and school personnel in Klaeng district, Rayong province. The outbreak is attributed to contaminated water and ice consumed during a school sports event. Norovirus, a highly communicable virus, primarily affects children with lower immunity …
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Myanmar babies in Thai hospitals not eligible for free healthcare
Babies born to Myanmar parents in Thailand’s border hospitals are not eligible for free healthcare benefits like Thai nationals, despite receiving a 13-digit identification number. The National Health Security Office (NHSO) clarified this policy yesterday, December 18, highlighting that these ID cards specifically categorise the newborns as migrants born in Thailand, not as Thai citizens. …
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Do foreigners get free healthcare in Thailand?
Thailand’s healthcare system is well-regarded across Southeast Asia, with options ranging from public hospitals to world-class private facilities. But when it comes to foreign residents or tourists, healthcare access isn’t as straightforward. So, do foreigners get free healthcare in Thailand? Yes, you do get access to some healthcare for free only if you have a …
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Srinagarind Hospital overwhelmed by 830% rise in cancer patients
Srinagarind Hospital in Khon Kaen called on the National Health Security Office (NHSO) to address the overwhelming demand for cancer treatment, following a staggering 830% increase in patients seeking care under the Cancer Anywhere (CA) programme. Hospital director Somsak Tiamkao yesterday, December 17, highlighted that the facility is struggling to cope with the significant rise …
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Does UroLift actually work? Here’s what you need to know about UroLift in Bangkok
When it comes to health issues that are, shall we say, ‘below the belt,’ many men are understandably hesitant to seek solutions. But for the countless men experiencing the frustration of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or an enlarged prostate, finding relief without undergoing surgery is nothing short of a game-changer. If you’ve been exploring your …
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Bangkok’s waterways get a cleaner, greener future with ‘Pitak Tara’ canal-cleaning boats
If you live in Bangkok, you’re probably all too familiar with its canals, or khlongs, quietly winding their way through the city. They’re part of Bangkok’s charm, a living reminder of its past as the ‘Venice of the East.’ But while these waterways have been the city’s lifelines, transporting goods and people for centuries, they’re …
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NHSO to keep Cancer Anywhere programme despite rising costs
The National Health Security Office (NHSO) confirmed its commitment to maintaining the Cancer Anywhere (CA) programme, which empowers patients to choose their preferred location for cancer treatment. This decision comes amidst calls from various experts to discontinue the scheme due to escalating costs. NHSO Secretary General Jadej Thammatacharee addressed concerns regarding the programme’s new guidelines, …
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This Thai food can cause serious kidney problems and cancer
Everyone loves delicious food, but sometimes our favourite dishes can be harmful to our health if we eat too much of them. Processed foods, especially meats like sausages, are popular in Thailand, but eating them too often can lead to serious health issues such as kidney disease and cancer. It is important to understand the …