A costly problem is forcing Thailand to rethink how visitors enter the country.
Authorities are now considering making travel insurance mandatory for international tourists, as unpaid medical bills continue to strain public hospitals, Bangkok Post reports.
At major destinations like Phuket, hospitals report significant losses each year from foreign patients without insurance. One hospital alone estimates it absorbs around 10 million baht annually in unpaid treatment costs.
Across Thailand, the total is believed to exceed 100 million baht per year.
“Each year, we absorb about 10 million baht in treatment costs for foreign patients without insurance,” said Dr Weerasak Lorthongkham, director of Vachira Phuket Hospital.
Accidents, especially involving tourists riding motorcycles for the first time, are a major cause. Hospitals are required to provide emergency care regardless of a patient’s ability to pay, leaving the public system to cover the costs.
Despite relatively low insurance prices, many travellers still arrive without coverage.
The government is now exploring ways to require proof of insurance before entry, possibly linking it to visa processes or ticket purchases.
Officials say the move would both protect public finances and improve safety for visitors.
