The Benefits of Private Medical Insurance for People with Pre-Existing Medical Conditions

Experienced travellers understand the importance of appropriate health insurance for any overseas journey. It is one of those aspects of travel we all recognise as crucial, yet so many people neglect to handle it before leaving. Whether visiting briefly or staying for an extended period, it is essential to have comprehensive health insurance in Thailand to cover every eventuality and Pacific Cross Health is here to provide all the bespoke coverage you need.

• Discover the benefits of private medical insurance for pre-existing conditions, including tailored plans, cost savings and access to premium healthcare services.

Appropriate Insurance for Pre-Existing Conditions

Medical facilities and expertise are of an excellent standard in Thailand, but the prices often reflect this. Even simple procedures and medical assistance can quickly become prohibitively expensive without appropriate health insurance to shoulder the burden.

Health insurance for pre-existing conditions takes on an even greater importance, as travelling to Thailand with pre-existing medical conditions can present some challenges. However, these challenges can be managed and overcome with forethought, sufficient planning, and expert assistance.

How to Address the Common Issues for People with Pre-Existing Conditions

• Access to appropriate healthcare
  As mentioned, Thailand has high-quality hospitals, medical facilities, and a well-developed healthcare system that can be relied on to provide adequate care in most scenarios. This is especially true in larger cities like Bangkok; however, not all facilities will be equipped to handle certain pre-existing conditions. It is critical to identify the ones that are before arriving. 
• Cost of treatment
  Uninsured medical services can be eye-wateringly expensive, especially for less common ailments and pre-existing medical conditions. Speak to your Pacific Cross Health representative and discuss the details of pre-existing illness health insurance to protect you on your travels and take the stress and expense out of the equation. 
• Availability of necessary medication
  Your required medications may not be readily available in Thailand. Research beforehand and always carry an adequate supply if availability is an issue. Carrying a doctor’s prescription to refill your medications locally is also advisable if they have a supply. 
• Inadequate health insurance
  Most private medical insurance offered by Thai companies will not cover pre-existing conditions. This is a significant concern for travellers who require regular treatment or medication to manage their condition. Luckily, international health insurance providers like Pacific Cross Health offer flexible, tailored private insurance for pre-existing conditions.
• Communication problems
  Although not an issue in most cities, the language barrier can be an obstacle in smaller places, especially in medical emergencies. Equip yourself with some basic vocabulary and a good translation app for your smartphone to facilitate communication and get the treatment you need. 
• Emergency services
  Familiarise yourself with local emergency service numbers and have a fixed plan for accessing medical care in each location you visit.

By taking these steps and covering yourself with the best medical insurance for pre-existing conditions, enjoying the delights of Thailand is perfectly manageable, even with complex medical requirements.

The Differences Between Private Medical Insurance and Public Healthcare

Comparing the features of private insurance for pre-existing conditions and public healthcare in Thailand, we observe several key differences:

Cost

• Private medical insurance: Generally more expensive up front, with premiums and out-of-pocket costs. However, these are quickly nullified and much greater savings are experienced in case of necessary medical treatment. 
• Public healthcare: Government-funded (through the Universal Coverage Scheme ([UCS]) in Thailand. This makes it affordable or sometimes free for residents. Foreigners with work permits who pay into the Social Security Scheme can access public healthcare services. However, those not covered by UCS must pay for medical services, negating the advantage of public healthcare.

Quality of services

• Private medical insurance: Thai private hospitals usually have English-speaking staff, superb medical standards, and the latest technology. They typically offer a superior patient experience.
• Public healthcare: Although many public hospitals provide decent, reliable services, they are often underfunded and may lack the latest equipment.

Access to services

• Private medical insurance: Direct access to specialists. Patients often experience more personalised care, relatively short waiting times, and a less stressful, more streamlined service.
• Public healthcare: With higher overall demand, fewer resources, and greater demands on medical staff, longer waiting times are expected, especially for non-emergency services.

Coverage

• Private medical insurance: Tailored plans with the required level of coverage are available. Medical insurance for pre-existing conditions is particularly important for affected travellers as private insurance plans can be carefully designed to help with their individual medical histories.
• Public healthcare: Standard services may be ill-equipped to handle all conditions, especially uncommon ailments and pre-existing medical conditions.

Choice of medical providers

• Private medical insurance: Offers more flexibility in choosing healthcare facilities and providers.
• Public healthcare: Choices are limited, and patients must use government-approved facilities and providers.

Regulation

• Private medical insurance: Affected by prevailing market conditions and regulated by private companies.
• Public healthcare: Regulated and controlled by government agencies.
  Understanding these fundamental differences is crucial when making an informed healthcare decision. If in doubt, please reach out to the team at Pacific Cross Health, and we'll gladly assist.

Personalised coverage

Although many private insurance providers do not provide medical insurance for pre-existing conditions, the industry is evolving to address the issue. Pioneering companies like Pacific Cross Health recognise the need to provide comprehensive, tailored health insurance in Thailand, not just for individuals without pre-existing medical conditions.

Pacific Cross Health: The Best Medical Insurance for Pre-Existing Conditions

Securing coverage when travelling to/living in Thailand with healthcare pre-existing conditions is essential, and Pacific Cross Health insurance is the ideal solution. With over 65 years of experience in the Asian health and travel insurance industry, we can provide tailored, effective private medical insurance solutions.

Our experienced, knowledgeable representatives will help you secure the coverage required and provide all the information, advice, and guidance you need. Please contact us using our convenient online application for a fast response or telephone our efficient call centre at 02-401-9189.