Uncovering Thailand’s CLMV Hospital Market through Medical Tourism

Posted byThwe Win Posted onJuly 19, 2023 Comments0

Why Thailand is The Destination for Medical Tourism?

Patients seek medical care internationally due to short waiting times, lower costs, and availability of specialised treatments or procedures that may not be available or affordable in their home country. In 2019, the Ministry of Public Health conducted a survey which found that Thailand’s ability to provide high-quality medical and wellness services at a more affordable cost than other countries is the main factor that attracts tourists to its medical and wellness.

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Furthermore, medical tourism in Thailand has become a flourishing industry, attracting people from various parts of the world, including Myanmar, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, and other countries. These individuals come to Thailand to seek medical treatments and services. On top of that, Thailand’s major private hospitals have received accreditation from the Joint Commission International (JCI). JCI indicates that they meet the highest standards of healthcare. Therefore, Thailand’s combination of top-notch medical care, affordability, professionalism, hospitality and high accessibility makes it one of the most famous destinations for medical tourists from around the world. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, medical tourists in Thailand spent USD $600 million which makes the fifth leading market in the world.

Top Diseases of Each Country

Here, we will explore the leading causes of death in Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam based on data. It is important to note that disease prevalence and mortality rates can change over time. This can be influenced by various factors, including evolving public health challenges and regional variations.

Myanmar faces challenges with stroke, coronary heart disease, lung disease, diabetes mellitus, and tuberculosis. Stroke and heart disease contribute to high mortality rates, emphasizing the need for prevention and management. Lung disease, including long-term respiratory conditions, poses a significant health burden. Diabetes and tuberculosis are also prevalent concerns in Myanmar.

Moving to Cambodia, the top causes of death are stroke, respiratory infections, heart disease, liver diseases, and tuberculosis. Stroke remains a prominent cause of mortality, followed by respiratory infections. Heart disease and liver diseases, including cirrhosis, also contribute significantly. Tuberculosis is a major health concern in Cambodia.

In Laos, the leading causes of death are heart disease, stroke, long-term respiratory conditions, respiratory infections, and diabetes. Heart disease, including heart attacks, is rising due to lifestyle changes and an aging population. Strokes are influenced by risk factors like high blood pressure, smoking, and poor diet. Long-term respiratory conditions, caused by smoking and pollutants, contribute to mortality. Respiratory infections affect vulnerable populations, while diabetes is a growing concern.

Lastly, in Vietnam, the common causes of death are heart disease, cancer, diabetes, stroke, and kidney disease. Heart disease, including coronary artery disease, is a major cause of mortality. Cancer is also significant, highlighting the need for prevention and treatment. Diabetes, stroke, and kidney disease are prevalent health concerns in Vietnam.

Non-Disease Programs Are Also Attractive

The Ministry of Public Health in Thailand is actively promoting ten areas of medical and wellness services worldwide. These areas encompass regenerative and anti-aging sciences, alternative medicine, cardio science, musculoskeletal treatment, dental clinics, In Vitro fertilisation, cancer treatment, surgeries, ophthalmology (cataract), and precision medicine. As a result, there is a growing trend of medical tourism for non-healthcare related reasons.

One of the most popular forms of non-healthcare related medical tourism in Thailand is cosmetic surgery. Due to the fact that the country is known for its skilled plastic surgeons, affordable prices, and luxury facilities, which attract a large number of international patients seeking cosmetic treatments. These includes liposuction, breast augmentation, and facelifts. Moreover, Thailand also offers a range of wellness and beauty services, such as spa treatments, yoga retreats, and detox programs. These services are becoming increasingly popular among medical tourists seeking a rejuvenating and relaxing experience.

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Overall, medical tourism in Thailand primarily focuses on healthcare services. However, the country’s well-developed infrastructure and range of amenities also make it an attractive destination for non-healthcare related medical tourism.

Marketing Strategy

Hospitals in Thailand often market their services using branding strategies that emphasise their reputation, experience, and expertise. They may use a variety of marketing channels, such as social media marketing, search engine advertising, and content marketing, to reach their target customers from CLMV countries. To illustrate, when targeting the Myanmar market, it is common to concentrate on content marketing via Facebook. This social media platform is widely used by people as their primary source of information.

They typically focus their marketing efforts on individuals from CLMV countries who enjoy purchasing branded products, have a luxury lifestyle, and prioritise spending money on their health and fitness. If you fall into the category of target audiences, partnering with us for a marketing business would be a suitable fit for you. Happio is a creative digital marketing agency specialising in serving the Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam markets. We focus on creativity and understanding these new and growing consumer groups. Additionally, Happio is dedicated to assist Thailand and other international brands in achieving their marketing and business goals.

The Happio team has conducted Facebook marketing activities, including the management of testimonial videos. These activities were specifically targeted towards the Myanmar audience for the “Praram 9 Hospital – Myanmar” Facebook page.

Facebook content marketing and testimonial video references for Praram 9 Hospital Myanmar

If you are interested in promoting your hospital brand, Happio is here to assist you. By partnering with us, you can expand your reach and offer your services to a broader audience, while also contributing to the growth of medical tourism in Thailand. Feel free to contact us to see our full portfolio including digital marketing.

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