A recent accident involving Jonathon Cobb, a 28-year-old UK tourist, has exposed gaps in Thailand’s medical insurance policies for visitors. Cobb, who fell from a motorcycle in Pattaya, suffered a broken arm and facial injuries but discovered that his medical costs, totaling approximately £7,000, weren’t covered under Thailand’s Health Insurance for Non-Thais (HINT) scheme. Although the scheme provides coverage up to one million baht (about £28,000), Cobb’s case was denied due to clauses excluding “risky behavior” and his failure to wear a helmet. This incident has drawn attention to a common issue where many tourists misunderstand Thailand’s insurance policies, assuming free coverage.
According to Pattaya Mail’s Barry Kenyon, insurance requirements differ across visa types in Thailand, further complicating matters. For instance, retirees with OA visas must hold insurance, while others, like tourists, face no mandatory insurance requirements. Some new visa types, such as the Elite Visa, also have specific conditions, leaving long-term visitors uncertain about their coverage.
A recent review committee formed by the Thai government aims to address these issues, but clarity on revised insurance guidelines is still awaited. In the meantime, tourists and expats remain cautious, hoping for more accessible information and a streamlined process in the future.