Thailand’s private healthcare industry is taking significant steps to position the country as a global leader in medical and wellness tourism. With rising international interest in health and well-being services, experts are confident that Thailand’s established strengths in tourism, medical care, cosmetic procedures, and wellness will drive economic expansion and strengthen its international presence.
The Global Wellness Institute (GWI) highlights a dramatic shift in consumer focus toward health, with the global wellness market growing from US$4.6 trillion in 2020 to US$6.3 trillion in 2023. This growth is expected to continue, with projections reaching $9 trillion by 2028.
Thailand’s established reputation as a top tourism destination offers a strategic edge in the wellness sector. The country’s diverse natural landscapes, cultural richness, high-quality service, and advanced healthcare systems combine to make it an ideal location for medical and wellness tourists from around the world.
Dr. Artirat Charukitpipat, CEO of Bumrungrad Hospital in Bangkok, noted that although Thailand’s economy is expected to grow by 2.7% this year, it remains heavily dependent on external revenue, particularly from tourism. The resilience of the tourism industry, which rebounded quickly after the COVID-19 pandemic, has shown that it can weather economic disruptions better than other sectors.
Dr. Artirat emphasized that medical and wellness tourism holds vast potential for the future. She advocated for an integrated focus on sustainability and well-being as key pillars of Thailand’s economic development moving forward.
“Thailand is a destination where international tourists from across the globe frequently travel for medical treatment,” Dr Artirat said. “We have high-quality medical facilities, world-class medical professionals, and affordable prices. We must capitalise on this and become an advanced medical hub of Asia.”
Bumrungrad Hospital, which is celebrating its 45th year, has launched VitalLife Scientific Wellness Center, a subsidiary that focuses on holistic treatments such as anti-aging, cosmetic enhancements, and weight management. Over the last 24 years, the center has experienced consistent growth, signaling the increasing global demand for wellness and medical tourism.
The growing field of “longevity medicine,” which focuses on extending healthy lifespans through disease prevention and wellness initiatives, is also gaining traction. Dr. Artirat highlighted Thailand’s impressive life expectancy of 80 years and suggested that the goal of living to 120 could be within reach in the future.
Lapasrada Lertpanurot, CEO of Master Style Pcl, which operates Masterpiece Hospital in Bangkok, emphasized the need for Thailand to establish a distinct identity in the global wellness tourism market. In light of ongoing international economic challenges, such as the US elections and their impact on Thai markets, she called for a strategic focus on promoting Thailand’s healthcare and wellness sectors to attract investment and stabilize the economy.
Lapasrada stressed that public-private sector collaboration is essential for maximizing the potential of Thailand’s health and wellness tourism, ensuring long-term growth.
Dr. Tanupon Wirunhakarun, chairman of the executive committee of BDMS Wellness Clinic and BDMS Wellness Resort, part of Bangkok Dusit Medical Services Pcl, confirmed that BDMS is investing heavily in wellness tourism. He noted the growing emphasis on preventive medicine, which now accounts for 11% of BDMS treatments, and predicted significant growth in this area. He also pointed out that wellness tourists tend to spend much more than regular tourists, with the average expenditure ranging from 60,000 to 70,000 baht per person per trip.
Dr. Tanupon expressed confidence that with continued public-private cooperation, Thailand could rise to be a top-five global player in wellness tourism, currently ranking 15th, with the US, Germany, China, France, and Japan leading the field.
Dr. Wittaya Wanpen, assistant director of Praram 9 Hospital in Bangkok, observed a shift in consumer spending patterns since mid-2024, particularly among Thai wellness tourists who are becoming more budget-conscious. While there has been a decline in demand for luxury services, Praram 9 continues to cater to a range of patients, with complex medical treatments accounting for over half of the hospital’s revenue, alongside cosmetic and wellness services.
As the global demand for wellness and longevity-focused healthcare continues to grow, experts agree that Thailand’s healthcare sector must evolve to meet the needs of international visitors, ensuring that the country remains a competitive destination for medical and wellness tourism in the years to come.
