While spas and meditation are designed to help prevent health problems, a huge business is being generated amongst those who already have problems, and need treatment. Many Thai hospitals and medical centers, which have recently been listed on The Stock Exchange of Thailand to raise funds for investment in equipment and construction, see a formidable revenue stream in attracting clients for medical check-ups.

At present, the cost of getting a medical check-up in Thailand is a fraction of what it costs in more developed countries. Language problems notwithstanding, a number of major Thai hospitals have learned the ropes of the travel business and are marketing themselves to also regular participants at international trade shows, like ITB in Berlin and the Arabian Travel Mart.

At Thailand's more than 400 private hospitals, standards are high and costs are extremely competitive. Little surprise then that large numbers of visitors decide to undergo surgery in the Kingdom as part of their stay.

Whether you are after plastic surgery, laser eye treatment or major heart surgery, you can rely on round-the-clock quality service in Bangkok and the major provincial cities and tourist centers, Seeking care on holiday is a trouble-free experience.

Doctors and specialists can swiftly obtain patient records by satellite. Hospitals employ staff fluent in English and have  received overseas training. Demand for their services from the middle East especially has also led to the hiring of Arabic-speaking personnel.

Indeed, the whole business of linkage between the hospitals and the travel industry took a step forward when Thai Airways International ( THAI ) began packaging medical check-ups as part of its Royal Orchid Holidays programme.

Thai hospitals are renowned around the world, and its a fact of which the Thais are very proud. This asset also plays vital part in the private health services in which the quality and the standard are exceptionally high. With the country gearing towards long-stay health lifestyle tourism, medical services play an important part as well.

At present, Thailand has more than 400 private hospitals scattered throughout the kingdom. Most of the hospitals are staffed with overseas-trained doctors and a specialist who can ensure that communication is no barrier. There are fast mobile service including helicopter and aircraft, and patients' records can be swiftly obtained via the internet. Visitor who choose to long-stay in Thailand can rest assured that Thailand's private hospitals are of very high standard while the fees are surprising low compared to those on the West. Foreign expatriates, executives of international corporations and embassy staff will all attest to the excellence of hospital treatment here and to its comparatively low cost. Whether you are contemplating a check-up or a major medical professional procedure, you will enjoy prompt attention, immaculate comfort, highly professional staff and friendly faces.