Find out which country offers better healthcare coverage for expats and locals in 2025
Both Thailand and Malaysia are popular destinations in Southeast Asia, not only for tourism but also for medical treatment and long-term living. Health insurance plays a key role in ensuring access to quality care at affordable prices. This comparison helps you understand the differences in coverage, cost, and accessibility between the two countries.
Thailand offers a mix of public and private healthcare insurance. Expats commonly use private insurers like Bupa Thailand or AXA, while citizens may access the Universal Coverage Scheme. Malaysia provides private medical insurance through local and international providers such as AIA, Prudential, and Allianz.
Thailand's private hospitals in Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai are globally recognized for medical tourism. Malaysia’s hospitals like Prince Court and Gleneagles also provide excellent services with competitive prices.
Both countries offer direct billing systems in major hospitals, but Malaysia tends to have wider international coverage through its insurance providers.
For budget-conscious expats, Malaysia often offers slightly lower premiums and broader coverage through international providers. Thailand, however, has superior infrastructure in specific medical hubs. Choose based on your location, budget, and hospital preference.