Hospitals in Chiang Mai

Finding a hospital in a foreign city takes longer when you don't know the system. Here's how it works in Chiang Mai.

Chiang Mai has several hospitals used to treating foreign patients. The two main international options are Chiang Mai Ram Hospital and Bangkok Hospital Chiang Mai, both relatively close to the old city. There are also smaller clinics scattered around the Nimman and old town areas for non-emergency visits.

A basic ER visit at a private hospital costs far less than it would in Europe or the US. Seeing a doctor at a walk-in clinic is cheaper still. If you need imaging or blood work, expect to pay more, but the total stays modest by Western standards. Most places accept credit cards.

If you're staying in the old city or Nimman area, both main hospitals are within a 15-minute drive. Grab is the easiest way to get there. For minor stuff like stomach issues or a bad cut, the clinics along Nimmanhaemin Road are quicker and less of a production than going to a full hospital. Night bazaar area also has a couple of clinics open late.

English is spoken at reception and by most doctors at both international hospitals. At the smaller clinics it varies. Having your symptoms or medication names written down helps if you end up somewhere with limited English.

Chiang Mai Ram is the go-to for emergencies. It's been around longer and the ER is well set up. Bangkok Hospital Chiang Mai is newer, a bit more modern, and good for planned visits or specialist consultations.

Chiang Mai RAM Hospital has a pediatric department that sees a lot of foreign families. The pediatric wing is separate from the main ER, which helps when you have small children who are already scared. Lanna Hospital also treats children and the staff are patient with kids.

If you're in Chiang Mai and need a doctor or a hospital right now, travel-ER can find the closest open one to your location, with the local emergency number on top.

This page is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Information may be outdated or inaccurate. Always call ahead to confirm. See our full disclaimer.

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Sources: WHO Thailand · CDC Travel Health: Thailand