What should I do in a medical emergency in Thailand?

Medical emergency guide for foreigners in Thailand: **Emergency numbers:** - **1669** — National emergency medical service (ambulance) - **1554** — Tourist police (can help with translation) - **191** — General police emergency - Most private hospitals have their own ambulance services (often faster) **What to do:** 1. Call 1669 or go to nearest hospital (don't wait for ambulance in urban areas — taxi/Grab is often faster) 2. Bring passport and insurance card/documents 3. Public hospitals MUST treat emergency cases regardless of ability to pay 4. Private hospitals may ask for payment guarantee before non-emergency treatment **Public vs Private hospitals:** - **Public:** Cheaper (THB 1,000-10,000 for ER visit), but crowded, limited English, longer waits - **Private:** Expensive (THB 5,000-50,000+ for ER visit), English-speaking staff, modern facilities, faster service - For serious emergencies, major private hospitals (Bumrungrad, BNH, Samitivej, Bangkok Hospital) have international departments **Insurance matters — CRITICAL:** - If you have insurance: Call your insurer's emergency line ASAP. Many hospitals do direct billing with major insurers - If you DON'T have insurance: You will need to pay cash or credit card upfront at private hospitals - Public hospitals will treat first and bill later for genuine emergencies - Average hospital costs: ER visit THB 5,000-50,000, ICU THB 50,000-150,000/day, surgery THB 100,000-1,000,000+ **Medical evacuation:** - International SOS and other providers offer evacuation to Singapore, Bangkok, or home country - Cost without insurance: USD 50,000-300,000+ - Must be arranged by a doctor — you can't self-evacuate **Medication access:** - Many medications available over-the-counter in Thailand (including antibiotics) - Bring a list of current medications (generic names) and prescriptions - Pharmacies are widespread and pharmacists often speak basic English **After the emergency:** - Request all medical records and receipts (for insurance claims) - Get a medical certificate if you need to extend your visa - Contact your embassy if you need assistance with family notification or repatriation