Thailand is good for your health. The Kingdom is transforming global medical tourism through investments in cutting-edge technologies that allow its hospitals to compete with Western counterparts at more affordable prices, according to a global travel website.

“Thailand remains the largest medical tourism market in ASEAN, generating approximately $850 million in revenue in 2023. The country has established itself as a global leader in healthcare tourism, combining advanced medical treatments with its reputation as a world-class tourist destination,” wrote the Travel and Tour World website.

Patients from the United States comprised the third-largest source region for Thailand in 2023 when it provided care 2.86 million international health tourists. The Middle East and Thailand’s immediate neighbors were first and second, respectively.

Many Americans first became aware of the quality and cost savings available for health and wellness in the Kingdom two decades ago when television newsmagazine 60 Minutes profiled Bumrungrad Hospital in Bangkok as a top global destination for medical tourists.

At the time, Bumrungrad was considered a cut above most Thai private hospitals. But since then, dozens of others have achieved international accreditation and are providing services on a par with Bumrungrad.

“Over the years, Thailand has made significant investments in cutting-edge medical technology, allowing it to compete with Western healthcare standards at more affordable prices,” the website wrote.

And private hospitals have been leading the way. “Thailand's private-hospital sector is spearheading a drive to establish the nation as a leading global hub for medical and wellness tourism,” The Nation newspaper wrote.

“Thailand's established strengths in tourism, advanced medical care, cosmetic surgery, and wellness offerings are key drivers for economic growth and international expansion,” the paper wrote.