Large health premium uptick expected

Thai health insurance premiums are expected to increase by almost 10% this year and continue that trajectory into 2026, driven by a surge in medical inflation that has reached the highest rate globally, demographics, and the rising threat of emerging diseases.

- NUNTAWUN POLKUAMDEE

Thailand's medical inflation is already at the highest rate globally, and the nation's ageing demographic is projected to fuel health insurance premiums to expand.

(CHANAT KATANYU)

Piyapadh Vana-Ukrit, chairman of the accident and health insurance committee at the Thai General Insurance Association (TGIA), said Thailand is approaching a demographic milestone, with 21.3% of the population aged 60 or older this year.

The figure is projected to rise to 25% in 2030 and nearly 30% by 2040. Women will account for a greater share than men, underscoring the growing challenge of managing healthcare needs for an ageing society, he said.

“This demographic shift will lead to higher healthcare expenditures, not only from chronic diseases but also from demand for advanced medical technologies and the need for sustainable health investment to adapt to structural population changes,’ said Mr Piyapadh.