Thailand - World-Class Care at Mid-Market Prices, with a Free Beach Holiday
Medical Tourism in Thailand is basically the mega-attraction in global healthcare tourism. With over 2.5 million visitors in 2024, Thailand happens to be the leader in having the most healthcare tourist volume, with over 24% market share in global tourist volume. This number is expected to rise 18-19% annually, and the overall revenue generation is predicted to hit the mark of $3.3 billion.
This nation is simultaneously regarded as a mid-budget tourism industry with prices cheaper (up to 70-90%) than US standards. So, basically, by paying less, you are also getting the much-thought-about experience of nightlife. Secondly, compared to other affordable medical tourism markets like India, Turkey, etc., it holds the tourism costs about 20-30% higher.
On average, a medical tourist in Thailand spends about 107,000 baht, which is equivalent to $3,100, per trip. On the other hand, medical tourism in USA can cost 2-6 times more than the entire healthcare tour in Thailand.
Moreover, being the most-visited healthcare tourism industry, it consists of about 17 JCI-approved hospitals and 61 other facilities holding the JCI and ISO standards. Thus, making Thailand the market with the densest certification web.
The government also assists the tourists with a convenient visa process (both application and approval) - all of this is completed within 3 days, where you get allotted 60 days for a medical tour, and if you need an extension, the visa can be extended up to 90 days.
Reasons why Thailand is opted the most for Healthcare Tourism
Thailand attracted 2.5 million medical tourists in 2024, which makes it the leading nation with the highest amount of headcounts from the global healthcare tourism sector.
Yes, medical tourism in Thailand is affordable compaed to other Western and European markets, but this is not the only reason behind such a high footfall of medical tourists.
Most number of accredited hospitals in the world, yes! Thailand has the most accredited hospitals, with over 17 hospitals holding certification from Joint Commission International (JCI), and other than these hospitals, more than 60 medical facilities have the standards of accreditation from JCI, AAAASF, and ISO.
It is more affordable than the medical tourism in USA, as all of its procedures can be done at 60-70% less cost than in the USA. Though this affordability does not stand in front of the ultra-cheap markets, like Turkey and India.
A Complementary Beach-side Vacation is something most tourists opt for in Thailand. Well, it is not a part of the package, but the holistic experience Thailand holds with its numerous seashores and beautiful hilly ranges is.
No Language Barrier, as Thailand is also one of the most travelled-to nations amongst the others with respect to its ultra-famous nightlife and soothing beachside experiences; the English-fluency bar is set to 9.2/10 throughout the nation, which ultimately helps make general or local communication a piece of cake in the country.
Quick Visa-making process, as the Thai government has made it very convenient to get a medical visa of 60 days within 3 days after application, and if one needs to extend the stay, it can be done and extended up to 90 days.
Popular Medical Procedures in Thailand
Thailand is considered a mid-budget destination in the global healthcare tourism industry. It attracts a wide range of international patients, from those seeking basic treatments to individuals undergoing complex and high-risk medical procedures.
Cosmetic & Aesthetic Surgery
Cosmetic procedures account for the highest volume of medical tourism cases in Thailand, making the country one of Asia’s most preferred destinations for aesthetic treatments.
- Breast augmentation
- Liposuction
- Rhinoplasty (nose reshaping)
Dental Procedures
Dental treatments rank as the second most preferred medical procedures in Thailand, offering advanced care at competitive prices with international-quality standards.
- Dental implantations
- Dental veneers
- Full-mouth restoration
Advanced & Complex Treatments
Beyond cosmetic and dental care, Thailand is also internationally recognized for several complex and risk-involved medical procedures supported by modern infrastructure and skilled medical professionals.
- Orthopedic surgeries
- IVF & fertility treatments
- Cardiology procedures
- Bariatric (weight-loss) surgery
- LASIK eye surgery
A Comparative Example Between Thailand and Other Major Countries
Thailand is the most visited country by medical tourists globally. However, it is not the most affordable healthcare tourism destination. Compared to India and Turkey, Thailand’s medical treatments are relatively higher in cost.
While procedures in Thailand are 60–90% cheaper than the USA, they are typically 20–30% more expensive than India and Turkey.
| Medical Procedure | Thailand | USA | Other Countries |
|---|---|---|---|
| Knee Replacement Surgery | $9,500 | $43,000 | India – $6,000 |
| Gastric Sleeve Surgery | $8,900 | $25,000 | Turkey – $3,900 |
| Cardiological Surgery | $14,000 | $123,000 | — |
Knee Replacement Surgery
- Thailand: $9,500
- USA: $43,000
- Other: India – $6,000
Gastric Sleeve Surgery
- Thailand: $8,900
- USA: $25,000
- Other: Turkey – $3,900
Cardiological Surgery
- Thailand: $14,000
- USA: $123,000
- Other: —
Thailand’s pricing reflects its advanced infrastructure, international accreditations, English-speaking medical staff, and a premium patient experience.
Major Hospitals Medical Tourists Opt for in Thailand
Thailand has the highest number of accredited hospitals in the medical tourism industry. Certifications include JCI, AAAASF, ISO, and Thailand’s national Hospital Accreditation (HA).
The country hosts 17+ JCI-accredited hospitals and over 60 medical facilities meeting JCI or ISO standards. Combined with English fluency, visa support, and hospitality-driven care, Thailand remains a global leader.
Bumrungrad International Hospital
- 580+ bed flagship hospital
- 1.2 million patients annually
- Asia’s first JCI-accredited hospital (2002)
- Cardiology, cosmetic & breast surgeries
Samitivej Sukhumvit Hospital
- JCI re-accredited in 2021
- 275 beds with premium patient rooms
- Strong focus on women’s health
- Fertility and maternity treatments
Vejthani International Hospital
- JCI accredited since 2014
- First hospital with JCI Hepatitis B CCPC
- 24/7 international coordinator
- Orthopedics – “King of Bones”
Bangkok International Hospital
- ISO & Thailand HA accredited
- 90,000 foreign patients annually
- Speedboat dock for patient transport
- Neuro-spine surgeries
Kluaynamthai Hospital
- Family-run hospital with 200 beds
- Smart patient rooms & controls
- JCI accredited since 2025
- Stroke care, orthopedics & cosmetics
Safety, Comfort & Accreditation
Thailand takes patient safety seriously. Leading dental clinics follow strict sterilization protocols, use CE/FDA-approved materials, and offer pain-free procedures using local anesthesia or sedation, if required.
Many clinics provide before-and-after treatment photos, transparent cost estimates, and warranty policies to give international patients peace of mind.
Planning Your Dental Trip to Thailand
Our Medical Travel Concierge Team is here to assist you every step of the way—from choosing the right dental clinic to scheduling appointments and helping with accommodations or local transportation.