Telemedicine expands support for chronic patients amid fuel price rise
Thailand's Social Security Office supports telemedicine for chronic patients to reduce travel costs amid rising fuel prices.
Key Points
- 1SSO offers financial support for telemedicine covering 26 chronic illnesses from May 1 to July 31, 2026.
- 2118 hospitals nationwide participate, billing the SSO directly so patients avoid upfront costs.
- 3Program aims to reduce travel and hospital overcrowding during fuel price crisis linked to Middle East conflict.
- 4Eligible patients include those insured under Sections 33 and 39 of the Social Security Act with stable chronic conditions.
The Social Security Office (SSO) of Thailand has introduced financial support for telemedicine services to help patients with 26 chronic illnesses avoid travel during the current fuel price crisis caused by conflicts in the Middle East. This initiative, effective from May 1 to July 31, aims to ease transportation costs for insured workers by enabling remote medical consultations and treatments.
Under a new regulation by the Medical Committee, designated hospitals and healthcare facilities will be reimbursed directly by the SSO for telemedicine services provided to insured persons under Sections 33 and 39 of the Social Security Act. This covers chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, chronic liver conditions, heart failure, stroke, cancer, and immunodeficiency disorders, allowing stable patients to receive outpatient care remotely without upfront payments.
Currently, 118 medical facilities nationwide participate in the SSO's telemedicine program, enhancing healthcare accessibility, convenience, and reducing hospital overcrowding. This move supports patients in Koh Samui and across Thailand by limiting the need for travel, especially relevant during times of rising fuel costs and ongoing global uncertainties.
For island residents and visitors, this means easier access to essential healthcare without the stress of travel expenses or crowded clinics. OG Lab reminds you that while telemedicine helps manage chronic conditions remotely, maintaining a balanced lifestyle on the island—sun, fresh air, and healthy local food—also plays a vital role in well-being.
