Thailand positions itself in rehab treatment market

The rise in global addiction, particularly in Middle East countries, the US and Australia has created extremely long waiting lists at rehab centres. Thailand could offer an alternative destination for treatment.

Thailand is one of the world’s top medical tourism destinations, mainly for cosmetic surgery and reasonably priced medical treatment.

The country is now promoting itself as a prime destination for recovering addicts because of its warm climate and relatively cheap food and lodging.

Thailand offers a variety of rehab centres and services. The country’s temples are offering rehab services – the Thamkrabok Temple for example has a 15-day drug rehabilitation programme that is free.

Most rehab centres however are in luxury resorts with price tags to match. The Cabin has 120 residences and equipped with private pools, al fresco dining areas, gyms and clinics with mountain views. The Cabin charges US$15,900 for a month’s stay at Thailand’s largest Western-style luxury rehabilitation centre, and most customers are from overseas.