Thailand launches $14,000 medical coverage scheme for tourists

Bangkok: The Thailand administration has launched a scheme to offer tourists medical coverage up to $14,000, buttering tourism opportunities to attract visitors. The medical coverage in events of accidents is expected to improve tourism, which slogged after the advent of the pandemic, in the country, Agence France-Presse reported.

According to the Thailand Tourism Ministry’s announcement on Thursday, the government will cover expenses up to 5,00,000 baht ($14,000) and pay compensation of up to one million baht in case of death as per the new scheme.

The Covid-19 pandemic-induced travel restrictions affected the country heavily since tourism contributes heavily to its economy. The sector did not come back on track even after the imposed restrictions were lifted.

AFP was told by the tourism minister Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol that the new scheme started on January one and will be there until August 31.

The minister said that the scheme would assure tourists that Thailand was safe and they would be taken with good care.

Thailand is famous among youths for its tropical Sun, beaches and advantages. However, there were accidents, leaving tourists with huge medical bills and a lack of adequate insurance.

The tourism minister elaborated on the scheme, saying that it would not cover accidents due to “negligence, intent, illegal acts or risky behaviour”. Visitors could register for the scheme through the Thailand Traveller Safety website at tts.go.th.

Last year, 28 million people visited the country, while it was 11 million the year before. However, the visitor count was 40 million in 2019, which was before the pandemic broke out.

Authorities are expecting 35 million visitors this year, eying $55 billion in revenue.