Kids' Health in Thailand: Vaccinations & Medical Care for Expat Families

Moving to Thailand with children brings important health considerations. How does the pediatric healthcare system work? Which vaccines are mandatory or recommended? What are the costs of medical care? Most importantly, how can you ensure that your child has access to quality healthcare without excessive expenses?

As trusted experts in expat health insurance in Asia and official CFE representative, Alea provides all the essential information you need.

1. How Does the Healthcare System for Children Work in Thailand?

Thailand has a well-developed healthcare system with a variety of public and private medical facilities. While public hospitals offer affordable care, many expats choose private hospitals and international clinics for shorter wait times and English-speaking medical staff.

Public hospitals such as Bangkok General Hospital and Chulalongkorn Hospital provide affordable healthcare, but wait times can be long, and English communication may be challenging.

Thai private hospitals like Samitivej Hospital and Bumrungrad International Hospital offer high-quality care, specialized pediatricians, and English-speaking staff, but at a higher cost.

International clinics such as BNH Hospital and MedPark Hospital provide top-tier services with some French-speaking doctors, making them a preferred choice for expat families.

Estimated Medical Costs for Children in Thailand

• Pediatric consultation: THB 500 – 3,000 (≈ 14 – 82 Euros)
• Vaccination per dose: THB 1,000 – 5,000 (≈ 27 – 136 Euros)
• Emergency care and hospitalization per day: THB 10,000 – 50,000 (≈ 272 – 1,361 Euros)

💡 Tip: Public hospitals are more affordable but often have long waiting times. Many expats prefer private hospitals and international clinics for faster and higher-quality care.

2. Vaccinations for Children in Thailand: What’s Recommended?

Vaccination is essential to protect your child from local diseases and meet school entry requirements in Thailand.

Mandatory Vaccines in Thailand (Local Immunization Schedule)

• BCG (Tuberculosis)
• Hepatitis B
• Polio
• Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (DTP)
• Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)

Recommended Vaccines for Expat Children

• Japanese Encephalitis – Recommended for children living in rural areas or traveling frequently.
• Hepatitis A – Important for preventing food and waterborne infections.
• Typhoid – Useful for children traveling frequently outside major cities.
• Dengue – A vaccine exists but is not widely available; mosquito prevention is crucial.
• Seasonal Flu – Strongly advised, especially for young children.

💡 Tip: Vaccines in Thailand may differ from those in Europe. International clinics often provide vaccines equivalent to those used in France, ensuring better traceability.

Estimated Vaccination Costs in Thailand

• In public hospitals: THB 1,000 – 2,000 per dose (≈ 27 – 54 Euros)
• In private clinics: THB 3,000 – 5,000 per dose (≈ 82 – 136 Euros)

3. Ensuring Optimal Medical Care for Your Child in Thailand

To maintain your child’s health in Thailand, regular medical check-ups and proactive healthcare planning are essential.

Selecting a trusted pediatrician in an international clinic or private hospital ensures high-quality care. Keeping a medical record of vaccinations and past treatments is important. Having comprehensive health insurance is also essential to cover the often high medical expenses.

When Should Your Child See a Pediatrician?

• Routine check-ups should take place every 3 to 6 months until the age of 2, then annually.
• Medical attention is recommended for persistent fever or frequent infections, as the hot and humid climate in Thailand can increase viral illnesses.
• Children with respiratory issues or allergies may need more frequent consultations due to high pollution levels in Bangkok and other major cities.

💡 Tip: Thailand’s air pollution can impact children's health. Using an air purifier at home and avoiding outdoor activities during pollution peaks is recommended.

4. Why Get Health Insurance for Your Children in Thailand?

Healthcare costs in Thailand, especially in private hospitals and international clinics, can be high for expats. A comprehensive health insurance plan ensures your child has access to the best medical care without financial stress.

Key Benefits of Health Insurance for Expat Children

• Coverage for pediatric consultations and vaccinations
• Access to top private hospitals and international clinics
• Protection for emergency care and hospitalizations
• Coverage for tropical diseases and common local infections

As a leading insurance broker for expats and official CFE partner, Alea assists the French and expat community in finding the best health insurance solutions.

With Thailand's complex healthcare system and the high cost of private care, we compare top-tier health insurers—including APRIL, Henner, and MSH—to secure the best coverage at the best price for you and your family!