Thailand expects to double the number of overseas patients receiving treatment to 5 million in the next five years, says Public Health Minister Pradit Sintawanarong.
The country's medical business has been thriving with 16% growth annually in overseas patients, who now total around 2.5 million, he said.
Thailand currently has 23 hospitals with international standards accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI). These hospitals have special services for foreign patients such as translators, specific wards, food and personnel as well as visa extension services.
Another 15 hospitals have potential to upgrade to offer services to foreign patients, said the minister.
The Public Health Ministry has been asked to be a focal point to support the development of Thai hospitals to ensure the country’s position as the "medical hub" in the region.
Dr Pradit made the comments after meeting in Bangkok with Ahmad Mohammed Al-Sayed, managing director and CEO of Qatar Holding LLC. He is in Thailand to seek cooperation on public health and looking for investment opportunities in health-related businesses, especially hospitals.
He said Qatar was keenly interested in doing business with the healthcare industry in Thailand because the country was now a leader in the field in Asia.