Getting sick abroad is never fun — especially when you’re on a small island like Koh Samet, far from home, and unsure where to turn. But if you find yourself sick in Koh Samet, don’t worry. The island may be small, but it’s well prepared for tourists and has several private clinics, pharmacies, and English-speaking doctors ready to help you feel better quickly.
Whether it’s a stomach bug, dehydration, a scooter scrape, or just a strange symptom you’re not sure about, this guide walks you through everything you need to know to get safe, reliable healthcare on the island.
Understanding Koh Samet’s Healthcare System
Koh Samet has a simple but reliable healthcare setup. Most medical services come from private clinics, with public hospitals located on the mainland.
Private vs. Public
Private clinics are your best bet as a traveler. They offer:
- English-speaking doctors
- Shorter waiting times
- Fair, transparent pricing
- Experience treating tourists
- Convenient locations near main beaches
Public hospitals are located in Rayong (40–60 minutes away by speedboat + taxi). They offer good care but longer waits and fewer English-speaking staff.
For non-emergencies, stay on the island and use a private clinic. For anything serious, head to Rayong or call for help arranging transfer.
Emergency Medical Care
If you’re dealing with something urgent, here’s what you need to know.
Essential Emergency Numbers
- 1669 – Ambulance/medical emergencies
- 1155 – Tourist Police (English-speaking)
- 191 – General police hotline
Save these numbers before arriving on the island.
How to Call an Ambulance in Koh Samet
Island ambulances do exist, but response times can vary depending on your location. Koh Samet’s roads are small and narrow, so many ambulance responses involve a vehicle + a boat transfer to the mainland hospital.
If you’re staying at a resort, ask reception staff to help — they generally know the quickest local emergency routes.
When to Go to a Hospital vs. When to Go to an Urgent Care Clinic
Go to a clinic for:
- Stomach issues
- Mild fever
- Food poisoning symptoms
- Rashes, bites, sunburn
- Minor injuries
- Ear infections
- Dehydration
Go to a hospital (Rayong Hospital or Bangkok Rayong Hospital) for:
- Severe infections
- High, persistent fever
- Chest pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Major accidents
- Broken bones
If you’re unsure, a private clinic doctor can advise you and help arrange safe transfer to the mainland if needed.
Pharmacies & Medication: What You Need to Know
Pharmacies are easy to find in Koh Samet, especially around Sai Kaew Beach, Ao Phai, and Ao Tubtim.
What to Expect
- Many pharmacies are privately run
- Staff usually speak basic English
- You can buy common over-the-counter medication like:
- Painkillers
- Electrolytes
- Anti-nausea options
- Antihistamines
- Creams for rashes and bites
You will need a doctor’s note for stronger medication.
Where to Find 24/7 Pharmacies
Koh Samet does not have many true 24/7 pharmacies, but several stay open late — often until 10–11 PM. Ask your hotel or clinic for the closest late-night option.
What to Do if You’ve Got Travel Insurance
Most travel insurance plans cover medical care on Koh Samet, including clinic visits and emergencies. Just make sure to keep all paperwork.
Documents You’ll Need to Submit a Claim
Your insurer may ask for:
- Passport information
- Your insurance policy number
- Doctor’s note
- Medical report
- Receipts for treatment
- Pharmacy receipts
Always double-check coverage directly with your insurer, as policies vary.
Language Barriers
Many doctors and clinic staff on Koh Samet speak English — especially in tourist areas — but here are a few useful Thai phrases:
- “Chan/Pom puay.” – I’m sick (female/male)
- “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?
- “Puad hua/puad thong.” – I have a headache/stomachache
How to Avoid Getting Sick in Koh Samet
Common Illnesses Travelers Face
- Heat exhaustion
- Sunburn
- Food poisoning
- Dehydration
- Mosquito bites
- Minor cuts from rocky beaches
- Scooter injuries
Is the Tap Water Safe to Drink?
No — do not drink tap water in Koh Samet.
Use bottled or filtered water for:
- Drinking
- Brushing teeth
- Washing fruit
Most hotels provide free bottles daily.
Food Safety & Hygiene Tips
- Choose restaurants with good reviews
- Eat food that’s freshly cooked
- Be cautious with raw seafood
- Avoid ice from small street stalls
- Always wash or sanitize your hands
- If you’re sensitive, avoid very spicy food on day one
Healthcare Tips for Pregnant Travelers & Those with Pre-existing Medical Conditions
If you’re pregnant or managing an ongoing condition, Koh Samet is fine for minor checkups — but serious care is on the mainland.
Tips:
- Bring all essential medication
- Carry a doctor’s letter explaining your condition
- Check your insurance for specialist or pregnancy cover
- Know the fastest route to the mainland (your hotel can help arrange transport)
For specialist needs, expect to travel to:
- Bangkok Rayong Hospital
- Rayong Hospital
Finding an English-Speaking Doctor in Koh Samet
Many travelers struggle with:
- Clinics that only take walk-ins
- Unsure pricing
- Limited English
- Not knowing which clinics are trustworthy
How Air Doctor Helps
With Air Doctor, you can:
- Instantly book English-speaking doctors
- Choose online or in-person care
- View doctor reviews
- Get transparent pricing upfront
- Receive a doctor’s note for insurance
- Use your travel insurance in many cases
Getting Help Beyond Healthcare
Your embassy or consulate can help with:
- Replacing lost medication
- Contacting family
- Coordinating with insurance
- Arranging transfer to a mainland hospital if needed
Save your embassy’s emergency number before traveling.
Recap
If you get sick in Koh Samet, here’s what to remember:
- Private clinics are your best option
- Call 1669 for emergencies
- Pharmacies are easy to find
- Avoid tap water
- Travel insurance can help reimburse costs
- Air Doctor makes finding care simple and stress-free
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 is paid for out-of-pocket, but prices at private clinics are usually reasonable. Travel insurance can help cover the cost.
A standard clinic visit usually ranges between ฿500–1,500, depending on the clinic and treatment.
Yes. Most clinics on the island accept walk-ins, especially around Sai Kaew Beach and nearby areas.
