X-Ray Costs in Thailand: Public vs Private Hospitals
Thailand has earned its reputation as the "Medical Hub of Asia," offering high-quality healthcare at fraction of Western prices. X-ray costs in Thailand range from ฿300-฿500 ($9-$15) at public hospitals to ฿1,500-฿3,000 ($45-$85) at premium private facilities. With internationally accredited hospitals, English-speaking staff, and cutting-edge technology, Thailand attracts over 3 million medical tourists annually seeking affordable diagnostic services.
Quick Price Overview (THB/USD)
- Public Hospitals: ฿300-฿500 ($9-$15)
- Private Hospitals: ฿1,500-฿3,000 ($45-$85)
- Premium Hospitals (Bumrungrad): ฿2,000-฿3,000 ($60-$85)
- Dental X-Ray: ฿300-฿1,500 ($9-$45)
- vs USA Prices: 70-90% cheaper
Thailand's Healthcare System
Thailand operates a dual healthcare system serving locals and international patients:
1. Public Healthcare System
- Universal Coverage Scheme for Thai citizens (30-baht scheme)
- Very affordable for foreigners paying cash
- Good quality care but longer wait times
- Limited English-speaking staff
- Basic facilities compared to private hospitals
2. Private Healthcare System
- World-class facilities rivaling Western hospitals
- JCI-accredited hospitals throughout Thailand
- Minimal wait times, often immediate service
- Multilingual staff and interpreters
- Premium services and amenities
Detailed X-Ray Pricing
Public Hospital X-Ray Costs
| X-Ray Type | Thai Citizens | Foreigners | Waiting Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chest X-Ray | ฿30-฿100 | ฿300-฿500 | 2-4 hours |
| Extremity X-Ray | ฿30-฿100 | ฿400-฿600 | 2-4 hours |
| Spine X-Ray | ฿50-฿150 | ฿500-฿800 | 3-5 hours |
| Abdominal X-Ray | ฿50-฿150 | ฿400-฿700 | 2-4 hours |
Private Hospital X-Ray Costs
| Hospital Category | Chest X-Ray | Dental Panoramic | Spine Series |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Private | ฿1,000-฿1,500 | ฿800-฿1,200 | ฿1,500-฿2,500 |
| Premium Private | ฿1,500-฿2,000 | ฿1,200-฿1,800 | ฿2,500-฿3,500 |
| International (Bumrungrad) | ฿2,000-฿3,000 | ฿1,500-฿2,500 | ฿3,000-฿4,000 |
Note: Exchange rate approximately ฿35 = $1 USD as of 2025. Prices may vary based on number of views required.
Top Hospitals in Major Cities
Bangkok
Premium International Hospitals
- Bumrungrad International: Asia's first JCI-accredited hospital
- Bangkok Hospital: Largest private hospital group
- Samitivej Hospital: Premium services, multiple locations
- BNH Hospital: 120+ years of excellence
- Vejthani Hospital: Specializes in orthopedics
Mid-Range Private Hospitals
- Phyathai Hospitals: Good value, multiple branches
- Paolo Hospital: Affordable private option
- Sukumvit Hospital: Convenient location, reasonable prices
- Bangkok Christian Hospital: 30-40% cheaper than premium
Other Major Cities
- Chiang Mai: Bangkok Hospital Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai Ram
- Phuket: Bangkok Hospital Phuket, Phuket International
- Pattaya: Bangkok Hospital Pattaya, Pattaya International
- Koh Samui: Bangkok Hospital Samui, Samui International
Process for Getting X-Rays
At Public Hospitals
- Arrive early: Best to arrive 6-7 AM for queue ticket
- Registration: Bring passport, pay registration fee
- Wait for consultation: Can take 2-3 hours
- Doctor orders x-ray: Pay at cashier first
- X-ray department: Another wait, usually 1-2 hours
- Results: Same day or next day pickup
At Private Hospitals
- Walk-in or appointment: Most accept walk-ins
- Registration: Quick process with passport
- Consultation: Usually within 30 minutes
- X-ray: Immediate or minimal wait
- Results: Often within 1-2 hours
- English report: Standard at international hospitals
Insurance and Payment Options
Payment Methods Accepted
- Cash: Thai Baht preferred, USD accepted at some
- Credit/Debit Cards: Widely accepted at private hospitals
- Mobile Payment: PromptPay at some facilities
- Insurance: Direct billing available
- Medical Tourism Packages: Prepaid options
Insurance Coverage
- Thai Social Security: Covers Thai employees
- Private Thai Insurance: Various coverage levels
- International Insurance: Most major plans accepted
- Travel Insurance: Emergency x-rays usually covered
- Direct Billing: Available at major private hospitals
Medical Tourism Packages
Many hospitals offer comprehensive health screening packages:
| Package Type | Price (THB) | Price (USD) | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Check-up | ฿5,000-฿10,000 | $140-$280 | Chest x-ray, blood tests |
| Executive Package | ฿15,000-฿25,000 | $430-$715 | Multiple x-rays, comprehensive tests |
| Premium Screening | ฿30,000-฿50,000 | $860-$1,430 | Full body imaging, specialist consults |
Tips for Expats and Medical Tourists
Choosing the Right Hospital
- For emergencies: Any nearby hospital, sort payment later
- For routine x-rays: Mid-range private offers best value
- For complex cases: Premium hospitals with specialists
- Budget option: Public hospitals if you can handle wait
Money-Saving Tips
- Compare prices: Costs vary significantly between hospitals
- Ask for promotions: Many hospitals offer discounts
- Consider packages: Sometimes cheaper than individual tests
- Use mid-range hospitals: 30-40% cheaper than premium
- Avoid emergency rooms: Unless truly urgent
- Join expat groups: Get recommendations and tips
Quality and Safety Standards
Thailand maintains high medical standards:
- JCI Accreditation: Over 60 hospitals accredited
- Modern Equipment: Digital radiography standard
- Qualified Radiologists: Many trained internationally
- Safety Protocols: International radiation standards
- Digital Systems: PACS for instant image sharing
Language Considerations
English Availability
- International hospitals: Full English support
- Private hospitals: Usually have English speakers
- Public hospitals: Limited English, bring translator
- Medical reports: English available at private facilities
Useful Thai Phrases
| English | Thai | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| X-ray | เอ็กซเรย์ | ex-ray |
| Hospital | โรงพยาบาล | rohng pah-yah-bahn |
| How much? | เท่าไหร่ | tao-rai |
| Pain here | เจ็บตรงนี้ | jeb dtrong nee |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a doctor's referral for x-rays in Thailand?
No, private hospitals in Thailand allow direct access to diagnostic services. You can walk in and request an x-ray, though you'll typically see a doctor first who will order the appropriate imaging. Public hospitals require seeing a doctor first.
How long do x-ray results take?
Private hospitals usually provide results within 1-2 hours, sometimes faster for urgent cases. Public hospitals may take same day to next day. Digital images are often available immediately, with formal reports following.
Can I get my x-ray report in English?
Yes, all international private hospitals provide English reports as standard. Mid-range private hospitals usually offer English reports on request. Public hospitals typically only provide Thai language reports.
Is the quality comparable to Western standards?
Major private hospitals in Thailand meet or exceed Western standards. They use the same equipment brands and many doctors trained in the US, UK, or Australia. JCI accreditation ensures international quality standards.
Should I book appointments in advance?
For routine x-rays, walk-ins are usually fine at private hospitals. However, booking ensures minimal wait and allows you to request specific doctors. Public hospitals don't typically take appointments for basic services.
Compare Global X-Ray Costs
See how Thailand's affordable healthcare ranks among worldwide x-ray prices. Make informed decisions for your medical needs.
View Worldwide X-Ray Prices