Phuket is paradise — turquoise water, white-sand beaches, bustling night markets, and the kind of pad Thai that ruins all other pad Thais forever. But sometimes, in between the beach days and mango sticky rice, you might catch a stomach bug, get heatstroke, or feel a little off. And being sick in Phuket? That can feel extra overwhelming in a foreign country.
But don’t stress — this guide is your no-panic plan. Whether it’s a minor illness or something more serious, here’s what to do, where to go, and how to get help (fast!) so you can feel better and get back to enjoying island life.
First of All: You’re Not Alone
Feeling unwell while traveling is super common. It happens to the best of us — new food, a different climate, too much sun, not enough water… your body just might need a break. The good news? Phuket is set up to care for tourists. The island has high-quality healthcare, English-speaking doctors, and friendly pharmacists ready to help.
Feeling Sick in Phuket? Here’s What To Know
If you’re feeling off while on the island, you’re not alone. Thousands of tourists get sick every year while traveling, and Phuket has excellent systems in place to help. From world-class hospitals to pharmacy chains and English-speaking doctors — you’re in good hands.
Understanding Phuket’s Healthcare System
Phuket offers two main options: public hospitals and private clinics/hospitals.
- Public hospitals (like Vachira Phuket Hospital) are more affordable but can be crowded, with longer wait times and limited English.
- Private hospitals (like Bangkok Hospital Phuket or Dibuk Hospital) are more tourist-friendly, offer top-notch care, and usually have English-speaking staff. These are often the best choice for visitors.
Most hotel concierges can also recommend nearby private clinics — many cater directly to tourists.
Emergency? Call 1669
If you’re experiencing a true medical emergency, dial 1669 (Thailand’s emergency medical services number). Operators may not always speak fluent English, so if you’re near a Thai speaker or hotel reception, ask them to assist.
Pharmacies in Phuket
Pharmacies are everywhere in Phuket — you’ll spot Boots, Watsons, and local drugstores in most busy areas. Pharmacists usually speak some English and can help with:
- Antihistamines
- Antidiarrheal tablets
- Cold/flu remedies
- Rehydration salts
- Basic painkillers
You don’t always need a doctor’s note, especially for basic meds.
Using Travel Insurance in Phuket
If you have travel insurance, it will likely cover:
- Doctor’s visits
- Medication
- Tests or scans
- Emergency care
Make sure you keep receipts, a written diagnosis, and the doctor’s contact info for your claim. Some hospitals and clinics may require payment upfront.
Language Tips
Worried about a language barrier? Don’t be. Most private clinics and pharmacies in tourist areas have English-speaking staff. If not:
- Use translation apps like Google Translate
- Show symptoms in writing or pictures
- Or, better yet, use Air Doctor to book an English-speaking doctor directly
Common Illnesses in Phuket
Here are the most common travel-related illnesses people experience in Phuket:
- Traveler’s diarrhea (usually from unfamiliar food or water)
- Heat exhaustion or heatstroke
- Mosquito bites (including dengue risk — wear repellent!)
- Sunburn or mild dehydration
Stay cool, drink clean bottled water, and eat at clean, busy food spots.
What If You’re Pregnant or Have a Pre-Existing Condition?
If you’re pregnant, traveling with a chronic illness, or need ongoing care:
- Carry medical documents in English
- Pack extra medication and a doctor’s note
- Know where the nearest private hospital is
- Use a platform like Air Doctor to avoid language or location issues
When To See a Doctor
See a doctor if:
- You’ve had diarrhea for more than 2 days
- You’re vomiting and can’t keep fluids down
- You have a high fever
- You have a rash or strange bite
- You’re in pain or feeling worse, not better
Recap: Sick in Phuket? Here’s What To Do
- Choose a private clinic or hospital for faster, tourist-friendly care
- Use Air Doctor to book an English-speaking doctor
- Visit a pharmacy for basic meds
- Keep all receipts and paperwork for insurance
- Call 1669 in an emergency
- Stay cool, drink water, and wear sunscreen and repellent
About the Air Doctor App
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 cardiologists, gynecologists, and pediatricians
FAQs
Not quite. Healthcare in Thailand isn’t free for tourists — you’ll need to pay for doctor visits, treatment, or hospital stays out of pocket unless you have travel insurance. That’s why it’s a good idea to keep your policy details handy and ask for a receipt so you can claim it later.
It depends on where you go. At a private clinic or hospital, you can expect to pay anywhere from ฿1,000–฿3,000 (about $30 – $90 USD) for a standard consultation. That doesn’t include extra tests or medication, so it’s best to double-check pricing in advance when possible.
Yes! Walk-in clinics are common in Phuket — especially in popular areas like Patong, Kata, Karon, and Rawai. These clinics are great for non-emergency care and minor illnesses, and many have English-speaking staff. You usually won’t need an appointment — just walk in and get help quickly.
