Getting sick abroad is stressful — especially when you’re far from home, unsure where to go, and just want to feel better. If you’re feeling unwell in Koh Lanta, take a breath. You’re not alone, and help is easy to access. Koh Lanta is a popular island for tourists, families, backpackers, divers, and digital nomads — which means the island has plenty of reliable medical options, English-speaking clinics, and pharmacies ready to help you get back on your feet quickly.
Whether it’s a stomach bug, heat exhaustion, a minor injury, or something you’re just not sure about, this guide will walk you through exactly what to do if you get sick in Koh Lanta.
Understanding Koh Lanta’s Healthcare System
Koh Lanta’s healthcare is a mix of public clinics, small hospitals, and private medical centers geared toward tourists.
Private vs. Public
Private clinics are usually the best option for travelers. They offer:
- English-speaking doctors
- Shorter waiting times
- Tourist-friendly services
- Better equipment for minor emergencies
Public facilities exist too, but they often have longer queues, less English spoken, and more basic resources.
When in doubt? Choose private care.
You’ll get quicker, clearer help with much less stress.
Emergency Medical Care
If you’re dealing with something serious, you’ll need to know exactly where to go and who to call.
Essential Emergency Numbers
- Emergency line: 1669
- Tourist Police: 1155
- Local police: 191
Save these on your phone before exploring the island.
How to Call an Ambulance in Koh Lanta
Ambulance availability can vary on smaller Thai islands. Calling 1669 will connect you to medical emergency services, but response times may be longer than in big cities.
If you’re near a resort or hotel, ask staff to help coordinate — they usually know the fastest local options.
When to Go to a Hospital vs an Urgent Care Clinic
Choose a hospital for:
- Trouble breathing
- Severe dehydration
- High fever that won’t drop
- Chest pain
- Injuries from motorbikes or scooters
Choose a clinic for:
- Food poisoning
- Mild fevers
- Stomach pain
- Allergies
- Rashes
- Ear infections (common with diving and snorkeling!)
Pharmacies & Medication: What You Need to Know
Pharmacies in Thailand are called “drugstores” or “pharmacy shops” and Koh Lanta has quite a few, especially near tourist areas.
You can buy:
- Pain relief
- Electrolytes
- Motion sickness tablets
- Allergy meds
- Basic stomach remedies
For stronger medication, a doctor’s note is required.
Where to find 24/7 pharmacies:
Koh Lanta doesn’t have many true 24-hour pharmacies, but some stay open late in:
- Saladan
- Long Beach
- Klong Dao
If you’re unsure where the closest one is, ask your accommodation staff — they always know.
What to Do if You’ve Got Travel Insurance
Good news: most travel insurers cover common illnesses, accidents, and clinic visits in Koh Lanta.
Documents You’ll Need to Submit a Claim
Your insurer might ask for:
- Passport copy
- Insurance policy number
- Doctor’s note
- Medical report
- Treatment receipts
- Pharmacy receipts
Requirements vary, so check your own policy if you can.
Language Barriers
Many clinics in Koh Lanta have English-speaking staff, but if you need help, here are a few useful Thai phrases:
- “Pom/Phoom puay.” (male speaker) – I’m sick.
- “Chan puay.” (female speaker) – I’m sick.
- “Khor hai mor doo noi.” – I need to see a doctor.
- “Mee mor tee phood pasa angkrit mai?” – Is there a doctor who speaks English?
How to Avoid Getting Sick in Koh Lanta
Here’s what you need to know to avoid getting sick in Koh Lanta.
Common Illnesses Travelers Face
- Sunstroke and dehydration
- Food poisoning
- Minor diving or snorkeling injuries
- Motorbike accidents
- Stomach bugs from trying new foods
- Mosquito bites (though Koh Lanta is lower-risk than other areas)
Is the Tap Water Safe to Drink?
No — don’t drink tap water in Koh Lanta. Use bottled water for:
- Drinking
- Brushing teeth
- Washing fruit
Most hotels provide free bottled water daily.
Food Safety & Hygiene Tips
- Eat at restaurants with good reviews
- Avoid raw seafood from unreliable spots
- Ice is usually safe at tourist restaurants, but check
- Street food is delicious — just choose the busy vendors
- Always wash or sanitize your hands
Healthcare Tips for Pregnant Travelers & Those with Pre-existing Conditions
Pregnant travelers and people with ongoing medical needs should plan a little more carefully.
Tips:
- Bring all medication in original packaging
- Carry a doctor’s letter outlining your condition
- Know your travel insurance emergency contact
- Consider staying close to Long Beach or Saladan, where clinics are closer
If you need a specialist, most advanced-care hospitals are in:
- Krabi Town
- Trang
- Phuket
Finding an English-Speaking Doctor in Koh Lanta
Travelers sometimes struggle with:
- Clinics that only accept walk-ins
- Doctors who don’t speak English
- Not knowing which clinics are trustworthy
- Unsure pricing
How Air Doctor Helps
With Air Doctor, you can:
- Find verified English-speaking doctors
- Choose clinic, home, or online visits
- See doctor reviews
- Know the price before you book
- Use your travel insurance when possible
Getting Help Beyond Healthcare
Your embassy or consulate can assist with:
- Medical evacuation arrangements
- Emergency contact help
- Document replacement
- Legal or administrative support in serious emergencies
Keep their number saved — just in case.
Recap
If you get sick in Koh Lanta, remember:
- Private clinics are your best bet
- Call 1669 for emergencies
- Pharmacies are easy to find
- Avoid tap water
- Use your travel insurance if you can
- Air Doctor connects you to trusted English-speaking doctors anytime
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 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 and gynecologists
FAQs
No, healthcare isn’t free for tourists. Private clinics charge for consultations, but the cost is generally affordable. Travel insurance usually helps cover it.
A standard clinic visit typically ranges from ฿500 to ฿1,500, depending on the clinic and the type of consultation.
Yes — Koh Lanta has several walk-in clinics in Saladan, Klong Dao, Long Beach, and Klong Nin. Most welcome walk-ins, but during peak season, booking ahead gives you faster access.
