Getting sick on a tropical island like Ko Tao can feel overwhelming. You came here for the beaches, scuba diving, and laid-back vibes — not to spend your time worrying about healthcare. But don’t panic. Ko Tao has options to help you feel better quickly, whether you’re dealing with a stomach bug, a fever, or an unexpected injury.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know — from how the healthcare system works and where to find a doctor, to tips for avoiding illness in the first place.
Understanding Ko Tao’s Healthcare System
Ko Tao is a small island, so its healthcare facilities are more limited compared to bigger cities like Bangkok. But you’ll still find clinics, pharmacies, and hospitals nearby.
Private vs. Public Care
- Public hospitals are located on the mainland, so they’re not your first stop if you fall ill on Ko Tao. They’re affordable but less convenient for tourists.
- Private clinics are the go-to for travelers. They’re designed to handle common tourist issues like dehydration, infections, or diving injuries. They usually have English-speaking staff and can provide the documents you’ll need for insurance.
Emergency Medical Care in Ko Tao
Let’s take a look at everything you need to know about emergency care in Ko Tao.
Essential Emergency Numbers
- 1669 – Medical emergencies and ambulance
- 191 – Police
How to Call an Ambulance in Ko Tao
If you need urgent care, dial 1669. Keep in mind that transport times on the island can take longer than in a city, and in serious cases you may be transferred to a larger hospital in Koh Samui.
Hospital vs. Clinic
- Go to a clinic for non-urgent issues like food poisoning, colds, or minor injuries.
- Go to a hospital (usually via transfer to Koh Samui or Chumphon) for emergencies like severe infections, chest pain, or accidents.
Pharmacies & Medication: What You Need to Know
Pharmacies are easy to spot around Mae Haad and Sairee Beach. Most carry basic medicines for common issues like fever, stomach upset, or allergies.
24/7 Pharmacies
Ko Tao itself may not have a 24-hour pharmacy, so it’s a good idea to stock up on essentials during the day. Ask your hotel or hostel staff for the nearest option.
What to Do if You’ve Got Travel Insurance
Travel insurance can make getting sick abroad much less stressful.
Documents You’ll Likely Need for a Claim
- A doctor’s note or medical report
- Receipts for any treatment or medication
- Proof of travel (like boarding passes)
Always check with your insurance provider for exact requirements, as these may vary.
Language Barriers
Most private clinics have English-speaking doctors, but here are some helpful Thai phrases just in case:
- “Mee kai” (มีไข้) – I have a fever
- “Chan puat” (ฉันปวด) – I am in pain
- “Tong sia” (ท้องเสีย) – I have diarrhea
- “Khun pood pa-sa ang-grit dai mai?” (คุณพูดภาษาอังกฤษได้ไหม) – Do you speak English?
How to Avoid Getting Sick in Ko Tao
Here’s what you need to know to avoid getting sick in Ko Tao.
Common Traveler Illnesses
- Stomach bugs
- Heat exhaustion
- Minor diving-related injuries
- Mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue
Is the Tap Water Safe?
No — stick to bottled or filtered water. Even for brushing your teeth, bottled water is the safest option.
Food Safety & Hygiene Tips
- Eat at popular, busy restaurants and food stalls.
- Avoid raw seafood or undercooked meats.
- Wash fruit before eating it.
- Carry hand sanitizer when exploring markets.
Healthcare Tips for Pregnant Travelers & Those with Pre-Existing Conditions
If you’re pregnant or managing a health condition, plan ahead:
- Bring enough of your regular medications in original packaging.
- Carry copies of your medical records.
- Know where the nearest private clinic is on arrival.
- For serious issues, prepare for the possibility of transfer to Koh Samui.
Finding an English-Speaking Doctor in Ko Tao
It can be stressful figuring out where to go when you’re not feeling well. Air Doctor makes it simple by connecting you to trusted, English-speaking doctors in Ko Tao — whether you want an in-person appointment or a telemedicine consult.
Getting Help Beyond Healthcare
If you lose important medicines or need urgent support, your embassy can help. They may assist with:
- Contacting family or insurance providers
- Helping replace lost medication
- Coordinating in emergencies
Recap: What to Do if You Get Sick in Ko Tao
- For emergencies, call 1669.
- Use private clinics for faster, tourist-friendly care.
- Pharmacies provide common meds, but stock up during the day.
- Keep insurance documents and receipts for claims.
- Drink bottled water and eat carefully to avoid stomach bugs.
- Book an English-speaking doctor easily with Air Doctor.
About Air Doctor
With the Air Doctor app in your pocket, you can access medical care and receive expert medical guidance anywhere you travel.
Air Doctor offers a wide range of benefits, including:
- A global network of over 20,000 multi-lingual doctors and specialists
- Choice of clinic, at-home (hotel), and video consultations
- Healthcare access in 90 countries
- 24/7 multi-lingual support
- Transparent pricing and reviews
- Most common medical specialties, including GPs, dentists, and urgent care clinics
FAQs
It’s best not to. Use bottled water for brushing to avoid stomach issues.
Yes, but stick to busy food stalls where the food is freshly cooked and turnover is high.
Common symptoms include stomach cramps, diarrhea, nausea, and sometimes fever.
