Case study: Regency for Expats sales thoughout Asean

As an expat, finding reliable health insurance is crucial for peace of mind while living abroad. Whether you're in Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, or anywhere else, you want coverage that delivers when you need it most. Regency for Expats markets itself as an international health insurer tailored for globally mobile individuals, offering plans like Standard, Major Medical, Comprehensive, and Fully Comprehensive. But with growing concerns about claim denials, regulatory oversight, and company transparency, many expats are asking: Is Regency for Expats legitimate?

In this article, we'll dive into the facts based on user experiences, former employee insights, and independent research. We'll cover the company's background, red flags, real testimonies, and alternatives to help you decide if it's right for your expat life.

Understanding Regency for Expats: Company Overview

Regency for Expats is a trading name of Regency Assurance, a company registered in Nevis, a small Caribbean island known for its tax haven status. They claim to provide private health insurance for expats in over 120 countries, with no need for detailed medical history during the application process—just basic details like name, contact info, and payment method. This simplicity is appealing for expats on the move, but it raises questions about how they handle claims.

The company states it's regulated by the Financial Services Regulatory Commission (FSRC) in Nevis, but this oversight is minimal compared to regulators in the US, UK, or EU. Unlike major insurers like April, Henner, AXA, or Allianz, Regency doesn't have pre-existing contracts with hospitals for direct billing in many locations, meaning policyholders often pay upfront and seek reimbursement later. Their website emphasizes quick claims processing and high satisfaction rates (e.g., 84% in a 2025 survey), but online reviews tell a different story.

Red Flags: Regulation, Transparency, and Business Practices

One major concern is Regency's lack of regulation in most countries where expats live. Being based in Nevis means limited legal recourse if claims are denied—expats can't easily appeal to local authorities in places like Thailand or the UAE. Research shows no physical offices listed beyond postal addresses in Bangkok and Hong Kong, which users report as non-existent upon visiting.

Additionally, there's no mention of reinsurance partners, which reputable insurers use to back large claims. The application form's lack of medical questions allows easy sign-ups but enables denials based on "pre-existing conditions" that policyholders might not even know about. This clause includes conditions that "existed without your knowledge," which many reviewers call unfair and predatory.

Connections to brokers like NowCompare (allegedly owned by the same group) add to the skepticism. Former employees claim NowCompare pushes Regency plans exclusively, despite posing as independent, and employs staff to post fake positive reviews on sites like Trustpilot.

Testimonies from Former Employees: Insider Warnings

A former employee of Alliance International (which operates NowCompare) shared alarming insights in 2025: "Regency and NowCompare are owned and operated by the same people... The business model is to 'ACT' like an independent broker... but Regency is what you will see on top." They accused the company of faking reviews and employing a claims team with little expertise—led by figures like Douglas Wescott and Maria Cassidy—who allegedly delay and reject valid claims systematically.

The ex-employee highlighted Regency's unregulated status: "In stark contrast to reputable insurers like Cigna, AXA, or Allianz, Regency operates without regulation from any recognized governing body." This allows them to deny claims by citing loopholes, especially pre-existing conditions, since no medical history is collected upfront.

Client Experiences: Denied Claims and Frustrations

Dozens of expat reviews from 2023-2025 paint a picture of reliable small reimbursements but consistent denials for larger claims. Here's a selection of real testimonies:

• Chris Bailey (August 2025): "Refused claim after contradicting two separate MDs... VERY unsatisfied. I was sold a life insurance policy... I wasted THOUSANDS of Dollars."
• J.F. (July 2025): "I would give zero stars if I could... They refused to cover , claiming it was a 'pre-existing condition'... This feels like a deliberate attempt to avoid paying out."
• Peter Kessler (June 2025): "Never again with Regency... Immediate insurance coverage... but after three days, I developed severe abdominal pain... No reimbursement. I'm now in pain... and have asked the 24-hour emergency service for help, but have received no response."
• Philip Creech (June 2025): "Regency sold me a 15-year life insurance policy... They have dropped me, literally stealing more than US$ 6000. Scammers!"
• GK (December 2024): "They only cover small claims... For GBP 1000, they refuse to pay, citing pre-existing... Regency are 'regulated' in Nevis—which means you practically have no recourse."
• Ritwik Ghosh (December 2024): "Have used different insurance companies over last 20 years, but haven’t come across as malicious as Regency... They will play clients like a ping pong ball."
• Mark Mottershead (August 2024): "DO NOT USE!!!... If you find you have cancer... they won't pay out as it is deemed an UNKNOWN pre-existing condition... This is exactly what happened to me."
• TB (July 2024): "They only cover small claims... but if you have a larger claim, they will do everything in their power to NOT pay out... Pure scammers!"

Common themes include:

• Denials for "pre-existing" issues, even if undiagnosed.
• Delays in processing, requiring endless documentation.
• No empathy during emergencies, like surgeries or hospital stays.
• Fake reviews inflating ratings (e.g., Trustpilot detects and removes them).

On Trustpilot, Regency holds a 4/5 rating from 270 reviews, but 28% are 1-star, focusing on denied claims. Reddit threads and expat forums like ASEAN NOW echo this, warning of no real offices and poor recourse in Nevis.

Is Regency for Expats Worth It for Expats?

Based on the evidence, Regency for Expats appears legitimate in the sense that it exists and issues policies, but its practices raise serious doubts about reliability. It's cheap for a reason—low premiums often lead to denied claims, especially for major medical needs. If you're an expat in high-risk areas or with potential health issues, the lack of robust regulation and history of denials make it risky.

Pros (from positive reviews): Easy sign-up, quick small claims, responsive for quotes. Cons: Poor for large claims, minimal oversight, potential for fake promotions.

Alternatives for expats:

• Asean insurers: April, Lumahealth or Henner
• William Russell Insurance
• Allianz Care: Comprehensive plans with global networks.

Always check local regulations (e.g., for Thai visas, Regency may not qualify) and read policies carefully.

Conclusion: Final Advice for Expats Searching for Health Insurance

If you're considering Regency for Expats, proceed with caution. Read independent reviews, consult brokers not affiliated with them, and prioritize insurers with strong regulatory backing. Health insurance isn't just about cost—it's about protection when life abroad gets unpredictable.

For expats in Thailand, Vietnam, or beyond, shop around and verify claim payout rates. If you've had experiences with Regency, share them to help others.

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

Vietnam faces multiple challenges that prevent it from becoming a leading medical tourism destination. This comprehensive post highlights the major barriers to Vietnam’s growth as a medical tourism hub and offers a clear comparison with neighboring countries. 

Although neighboring countries like Thailand and Singapore have successfully positioned themselves as healthcare hubs, Vietnam is falling behind due to several factors:

1. Lack of a High-Quality Healthcare System

Over the past two decades, the demand for world-class healthcare services has been on the rise globally. Countries like Singapore and Thailand have become medical tourism hubs, attracting patients from around the world seeking top-notch medical treatments and facilities.

While some hospitals, such as FV Hospital, Vinmec, and AIH, offer modern facilities, the majority of Vietnam’s healthcare infrastructure is underdeveloped compared to leading medical tourism destinations. The high costs of management and ensuring international standards hinder wider improvements across the sector.

2. Shortage of Highly Skilled Medical Professionals

Vietnam has competent medical professionals, but they lack the extensive international training and collaborative culture seen in places like Thailand or Singapore. The country’s healthcare system also makes it difficult for foreign doctors to practice, limiting the sharing of global best practices. Multilingual medical staff is also scarce, limiting the appeal for international patients.

3. Limited Range of Specialized Medical Services

Vietnam offers basic medical services but lacks specialization in areas such as oncology, advanced cardiology, and fertility treatments. Holistic healthcare options, including wellness and rehabilitation centers, are not widely available, which limits Vietnam’s appeal for patients seeking comprehensive care.

4. Minimal Government Support and Inefficient Healthcare Policies

Unlike Thailand and Singapore, Vietnam’s government does not actively promote the country as a medical hub. Policies are not designed to foster growth in the medical tourism sector, and private hospitals are often seen as competition rather than partners in improving healthcare. The lack of transparency in government procurement and healthcare regulations further stifles the industry’s growth.

5. Poor Strategic Location and Accessibility for Medical Tourists

Despite its central location in Southeast Asia, Vietnam lacks dedicated visas for long-term medical patients or retirees. Overcrowded airports and insufficient infrastructure for medical evacuations also deter international patients.

6. Long Waiting Times Due to Bureaucracy

Vietnam’s healthcare system suffers from inefficiencies, including long waiting times for procedures, which contrasts with the streamlined processes in medical tourism hubs like Thailand. This creates a significant disadvantage for patients who prioritize speed and convenience.

7. Hygiene and Safety Concerns

Although Vietnam is politically stable, its healthcare infrastructure, particularly in hygiene and sanitation, does not meet global standards. This not only reduces patient confidence but also increases operating costs for hospitals.

8. Limited Cost-Effective Solutions and Packages

While Vietnam’s healthcare costs are lower than in Western countries, they are still not competitive enough compared to other medical tourism destinations in the region. Vietnam also lacks comprehensive, all-inclusive packages that cover medical treatment, post-operative care, and tourism, which are common in other countries.

9. Weak Tourism and Recovery Options for Patients

Post-treatment care facilities are scarce, and Vietnam lacks long-term medical visas. Although the country offers attractive tourism experiences, these are not effectively integrated into medical tourism packages, unlike in Thailand or Singapore.

10. Lack of Technological Innovation and Medical Research

Vietnam lags in adopting telemedicine and other health tech solutions that facilitate international healthcare. Additionally, the country does not prioritize medical research and development, limiting its ability to compete with leading medical tourism destinations that offer cutting-edge treatments and personalized medicine.

Conclusion

These combined factors hinder Vietnam’s ability to emerge as a top destination for medical tourism. The country lacks specialized services, government support, and a healthcare infrastructure that can compete with regional leaders like Thailand and Singapore. Without addressing these critical issues, Vietnam is likely to remain a less attractive option for international patients seeking high-quality, specialized medical care.

New Expat in Asia? Selecting the right health coverage can be overwhelming

Our correspondant in Thailand caught our attention on 2 fake insurers promising benefits and coverage to Expatriates and retirees then denying their claims for medical treatment of expensive treatments and chronic conditions. Thousands subscribers of WRLife health insurance ended up purchasing a 'too good to be true' insurance and having to pay for their hospitalization medical bills. The same goes with Regency For Expats Insurance.

We look at a real case study of a fake insurer. This article uses public information and complaints to review: WRLife health insurance in Asia

Introduction: an Investigative Report on WRLife Health Insurer

In the ever-evolving landscape of health insurance, customers seek stability, transparency, and reliability from their insurers. However, WR Life, a health insurance company that has been the subject of numerous complaints, raises concerns about its compliance and legitimacy. 

Our team made this investigative article that explores the history of complaints against WR Life, categorizes the issues, and attempts to determine whether the company is a non-compliant or fake insurer.

WRLife Medical insurance Claim Denials and Delays

Category: Claim Processing Issues

Issue: One of the earliest reported problems with WR Life involved significant delays in processing claims. Customers reported that their medical claims were either denied or took an unusually long time to be processed, despite being covered under their policies.

Impact: Clients faced financial stress due to out-of-pocket expenses for treatments that should have been covered by their insurance.

Category: Customer Service Problems

Issue: As the year progressed, more complaints emerged regarding the company's customer service. Clients cited long wait times, unresponsive representatives, and a general lack of support when trying to resolve issues with their policies or claims.

Impact: Frustration and confusion among policyholders, leading to a lack of trust in the insurer's ability to manage their accounts effectively.

Category: Corporate Governance and Stability

In July 2023, WR Life underwent a major restructuring. All Thai partners resigned, and the company was rebranded as "WRLife Claims and Operations Management." This sudden change led to uncertainty among clients regarding the future stability of the company and whether WRLife was re-insured properly by a financially strong insurer at all?

Impact: Policyholders were concerned about the security of their coverage and whether their claims would be honored moving forward (ASEAN NOW).

Policy Management Issues

Category: Policy Management and Transparency

Issue: Toward the end of 2023, complaints about policy management became more frequent. Clients reported unexpected changes to their coverage without prior notification and felt pressured by brokers to switch policies or insurers.

Impact: Increased suspicion among clients that the company was engaging in unethical practices, further eroding trust.

November 2023: Increased Online Complaints

Category: Public Perception and Reputation

Issue: By November 2023, online forums were abuzz with discussions about WR Life's questionable practices. Customers shared their experiences, warning others to be cautious when dealing with the company. Concerns about the insurer's legitimacy became a dominant theme in these discussions.

Impact: A growing consensus that WR Life might not be a trustworthy or compliant insurer (source Financedevil).

A quick look at Trust pilot website -any one can register and rate its own site!... not so trustworthy-, gave our consultants trained eyes a hint that the 3.3 was manipulated as a\in real world the 3.3 would be made by a Gaussian curve -a bell curve where the 3.3 would be the top of the bell. Here any low 1-star complaint is immediately counterbalance by a top rated 5-star, probably by their declared India-based office team? Click on the picture to read more and notice after 1 star bad review, immediately a few 5-star reviews follow, mostly written in the same boasting style and format.

Conclusion: Is WR Life a Rogue Insurer?

The numerous complaints against WR Life, coupled with the company's sudden restructuring and ongoing issues with claim processing and customer service, raise serious concerns about its compliance and legitimacy. While it's challenging to definitively label WR Life as a rogue or fake insurer without further regulatory investigation, the patterns of behavior and client experiences suggest that it may be operating in a manner that is not fully compliant with industry standards.

Consumers should approach WR Life with caution, carefully reviewing any policy terms and staying vigilant about changes to coverage or company practices. The current evidence points to a company struggling with compliance and customer trust, making it essential for potential and current policyholders to be aware of the risks involved.

As I write “As of July 4, 2024, 16,479 lodging establishments have been requested to stop operating, and 100% of investors have signed a commitment to comply.”

And if you are in the fire and safety equipment, it is the highest season ever for your business. 

Unfortunately for Hanoi, you will not help decrease fires and casualties for the reasons our article explain below.

In first half of 2024, a recap of the deadly fires concentrated in Hanoi Capital city of Vietnam

A quick recap on deadly fires shows multiplying death in Hanoi in the past few months, at improvised mini rental apartment buildings:

Jun 2024 3 dead Bac Giang 2-story town house, 

May 2024 14 dead Hanoi Cau Giay 5-story building,  

Jun 2024 4 dead in Dinh cong Hoa - Hanoi 5-story building 

Oct-2023 3 dead home explosion Thanh Tri district

Sep 2023 56 dead in Thanh Xuan mini-apartment building fire

Dec 2023 Carina apartment 13 dead: Management head get 8-year jail-term 

What is it that the youth are attracted to today?

A brief History of Hanoi capital center: landlords, real estate pricing and overcrowded

Hanoi historic center -around the lakes- got no infrastructure or urban planning investment since 1954 with Dien Bien Phu

• ndeed, the French colonialists withdrew, Hanoi was left with a legacy of beautiful colonial architecture and city landscape but no budget to revamp the city center. The war dragged on till 1975.
• Then Hanoi faced the Vietnam closure to the West, the US economic embargo on Vietnam till Feb 1994 and the failure of the communist economy went all the way to the 2000s.
• Since 2000, the huge needs in housing diverted the budget to the new districts and suburbs of Hanoi, leaving the heart with antique infrastructure.
• Then regulations and laws were set-up to preserve the historic Hanoi center around the famous lakes, with fines commensurate to low salaries -ie. a couple of millions are not dissuasive enough in comparison to the billions of VNDong generated by illegal additions to the buildings on tiny and dense land. Thus, the officials in charge or urban regulations and safety turned a blind eye to infringements for a 'co-fee money' in Vietnamese parlance.

Military and party politician real estate owners keep their original family as a treasury of war

• The center was home to old families of militaries and leaders of Vietnam victory. Their habits were thrifty and non-expansive when it comes to home space. Now becoming decision makers, the fortunes shifted so they could buy land and apartments as apparatchiks of the party. Selling their ever increasing small family house in Hanoi historic center became unnecessary.
• Owners with power of military or high ranking officials or the owners with sheer power of money can talk/bribe their way around into building a few floors more or on supposedly non constructible land. The calculation goes, if I build 1 more floor for 2 apartments sold at say VND2Bn each at aa 500Mio profit, I can pay for the fine of a dozen millions or pay the ‘stamper’ in chief VND50-100Mio to authorize & legalize my construction. Let’s try!

Vietnamese families Hanoi landlords live in antiques and cramped homes

• For the not so well-off families -not part of the happy few generals and entourage of the party leaders-. Their home of the ‘foot soldiers’ are living space, the business outlet shop house and the warehouse. It is common to have 3 generations in the same town house with an average of 7 people sharing the house.
• Additionally, to increase their income some landlords would build dependencies to rent to the rural migrants searching for scarce cheap city center accommodation.
• Asking for construction permits, for the ‘untouchables’ contributors to the war militaries' descents is an easy game as respected members by the authorities -when they are not the authorities themselves-. In Don Corleone parlance, they have ways to make the city planners ‘an offer they can't refuse’ to build more space for themselves or to rent.
• Since the French colonialists left, the practice compounded -from the 1950s up to now- and you get the level ‘urbanism' uncivility and safety uncompliance of the old hanoi center.

The Hanoi Vietnam real estate: terrain and environment to 2024

Many expats ask me why the prices are so ‘artificially high’ compared to New York, Paris or London. One should understand that the Hanoi capital city center can only increase in price due to scarcity and Vietnam currency control. All wealth of 100Mio Vietnamese is redirected to land ownership, built to cater à few 100,000 inhabitants both in Hanoi and Saigon by the French. And it is where business and local or foreign tourism will always be flowing in, for Vietnamese it is a priceless money making location.

Hanoi city center no-high-rise urban policy for preservation boosts the land and house prices

It is not unusual for a family to sell at well above $25,000/sqm. Moreover, as you may know, Vietnamese are under a strict currency control; the VN Dong is not convertible and the people can not invest or own assets abroad. All the wealthy people can only invest inside Vietnam. The scarcity of land and no high-rise allowed to preserve the beauty of Hanoi's historic center contribute to make Hanoi one of the most expensive land prices per sqm.

Limited Investment in Hanoi Capital city center infrastructure refurbishing

For families in need to sell their tiny home they would calculate the price of similar value in land outside of the city, plus adding an income for life as their prime location is often their shop house business income generating for the whole family. The Hanoi authority will never forcefully expropriate the land owners who are often old families heroes of the war alongside Ho chi minh or they are the Hanoi authorities themselves. 

As infrastructure spending would have negative ROI Return On Investment due to high costs of evictions of the populations and no possibility to build high-rises, the public electricity, water or fire hose pipes and sewage grid are inadequate and decaying.

How a Hanoian poor and uneducated landlord can optimize business value of his home?

The only way to satisfy demand and to multiply profit on the value of the land is to build up. Mostly building vertically illegally on top of old buildings bribing the city planners and construction department. 

The sad recent case of Sep 2023 56 dead in Thanh Xuan mini-apartment building fire resulted in ‘banning charging electric motorbike’ during the night inside the parking lot. Investigations revealed many  complaints about safety to the fire departments by the neighbors, addressed with lenient stamps by inspectors during the visits. Also over the years 5 floors were illegally constructed, but legally stamped for approval over many years.  The units were sold to new owners by the landlord, the newspaper articles don't explain who or if the ‘red book’ property rights were delivered to new owners living on top of the original owner property.

The press release does not precise if the hundreds of motorbikes parked in the basement -causing the fire- were the owners, the tennant or outside neighbors vehicles. There were discussions about the city indemnifying the victims for death and property, but no mention of any private insurer having to refund clients. Those cases are very difficult to point the responsibility as most authorizations stamped and paid for are illegal or long gone with the money to higher positions

The irrational economics and dangerous mindset of the Vietnamese landlords ready to bribe city planning authorities

When you receive a good bunch of money -circa the 100 millions of US$- where other than a nice piece of land/building/house it can go unnoticed, especially if you buy under a nominee family member. Obviously illegal money can not land in a bank account as there is no such thing as private banking as the Ministry of Finance can see through any bank accounts. 

Hanoi old quarters homes are ‘residential businesses’

The millions of migrant workers looking for rentals in Hanoi city

In such pressure on houses for rent, the conjunction of 4 factors magnifies the death toll. Getting a safer home facing a large street is impossible as it is reserved for shop commercial space, hotels or high-end foreigners apartments for rent. Cheap rentals are pushed deep into the difficult to access infamous ‘hẻm’ dead-ends alleys. Promiscuity is part of the cheap deal, the average ‘headcount’ x3.7 times the ‘official’ capacity of the living space. To keep rentals low, the landlords ignore or skip any ‘superfluous’ investments in security basic installations and equipment, sometimes resorting to bribing the city urban planners and the fire dept supervisors to avoid costly -and sometimes unfeasible- upgrades. To seal the bleak surrounding, promiscuity means all belongings and valuables of the tenants are kept in one place attracting thieves; as foreign visitors always wonder why in small town houses all windows are covered by ‘security metal bars’ preventing residents from escaping in case of fire. The answer: tenants in Vietnam want to prevent thieves from forcing their way in.

The city will not upgrade the housing infrastructure rain or shine.

As mentioned before the ROI is negative: pouring budget into the upgrade of Hanoi city center will make it more attractive to land speculators and rentals whilst not being able to build more new housing to respect city planning. Note some rules are weird to foreign eyes like not building higher than the people’s committee, old palace height or the feng shui geomancy divine instructions to the city mayor.

Rain and floods due to climate change have become unpredictable. The modern times have multiplied x5 fold the household needs for TV, karaoke and aircon in each room of the house, whilst wiring dates back the early 1900s for some parts of the city or for sure the calculations of wiring capacity is under evaluating the crowds in residency. Top top the risk cocktail, the Hanoi legendary humidity and heatwaves is a bounty -or a nightmare- for home insurance sales people.

NB. Most landlords in Vietnam are not insured as despite high risks, the government has never imposed compulsory home insurance for third party property damage, bodily injury or accidental death.

Conclusion: Hanoi capital ‘historic center’ needs for infrastructure are not met, resulting in increasing fire death toll years after years.

The situation may only stabilize or get worse but destroying the illegal constructions or relocating are complicated economical and political issues:

• Forcing the Expropriation of families of ex-military contributors to the Party victory at prices that includes a residence and income for life to compensate loss of central located commerce or
• Destroying illegal constructions authorized and stamped over time by the corrupt Hanoi city authorities and administrators, unraveling their names and requesting the relevant compensations.

You can also read In Vietnam the landlord is rarely your friend
Why most Expat tennants buy home insurance

In the ever-evolving landscape of medical travel, cost-conscious clients come to Vietnam often seeking more affordable medical check-ups, a trend that persists into 2024. However, recent data reveals that cost is not the primary deterrent, ranking as the third reason for forgoing check-ups. The second major obstacle is time constraints. Intriguingly, an unmentioned factor in surveys is the lack of trust in hospitals, particularly concerning equipment and professionals.

Top Seven Issues to Decide on Your Medical Healthcare Place to go in 2024

1. Trustworthiness Concerns: A Silent Challenge

While cost and time are often cited reasons for avoiding medical check-ups, the unspoken challenge lies in the perceived trustworthiness of hospitals. The quality of equipment and the expertise of professionals play a crucial role in influencing the decision to undergo medical examinations.

2. Dilemma in Referral: Navigating Trustworthy Options

When asked for recommendations on hospitals providing value for money, a dilemma arises for Vietnam clinics. Unfortunately, when it comes to lab tests and imaging facilities, silence becomes the response for several reasons.

3. Testing Consumables: A Nexus of Challenges

Testing consumables present a realm where challenges such as savings, fakes, thefts, and skimming by staff are prevalent. Even if the medical equipment is top-notch, the vulnerability in consumables raises concerns about the accuracy and reliability of test results.

4. Equipment Maintenance: A Costly Conundrum

Maintaining state-of-the-art medical machinery becomes a challenge when dealing with the high costs associated with flying in top experts from abroad, especially when maintenance contracts expire after the guarantee period. This dilemma questions the reliability of the equipment used in medical check-ups.

5. Training & Staff Turn-Over: A Skill Gap

The continuous evolution of medical technology demands regular expertise training for operators. However, the lack of skilled personnel in the medical sector makes it challenging to establish trust in the expertise required for accurate diagnoses.

6. Privacy & Confidentiality Concerns: Legal Ambiguity

Privacy and confidentiality in medical settings face challenges due to the absence of clear laws and the lack of awareness among employees regarding global best practices. Libel and breach of confidentiality laws, when present, are often disregarded unless they result in serious injury or death.

7. Safer Alternatives: Pointing Abroad for Assurance

Regrettably, safety concerns lead to the recommendation of alternative destinations such as Thailand, Singapore, or one's home country for medical check-ups and imaging. These locations offer a higher level of trust in terms of equipment, professional expertise, and adherence to privacy and confidentiality standards. The following factors support this belief:

Advanced Medical Infrastructure

Thailand: Renowned for its state-of-the-art medical facilities and well-established medical tourism industry, Thailand boasts a network of hospitals equipped with cutting-edge technology.

Singapore: Internationally recognized for its world-class healthcare system, Singapore offers advanced medical infrastructure and a robust regulatory framework.

Highly Skilled Professionals

Thailand: The country attracts highly skilled medical professionals, often trained internationally, ensuring a high level of expertise.

Singapore: Known for its stringent licensing requirements and continuous professional development, Singapore's healthcare workforce is distinguished for its competence.

Stringent Adherence to Standards

Thailand: The Thai healthcare system is guided by stringent regulations and international standards, providing patients with a sense of security regarding the quality of care.

Singapore: With a reputation for upholding the highest standards in healthcare, Singaporean medical institutions adhere rigorously to regulations, ensuring patient safety.

Privacy and Confidentiality Assurance

Thailand: Medical facilities in Thailand prioritize patient privacy, implementing robust confidentiality measures to protect sensitive medical information.

Singapore: Strict privacy laws and ethical standards in Singapore guarantee the confidentiality of patient data, fostering trust in the healthcare system.

Comprehensive Healthcare Services

Thailand: The country offers a comprehensive range of healthcare services, from routine check-ups to specialized treatments, catering to diverse medical needs.

Singapore: Known for its medical excellence, Singapore provides a wide array of healthcare services, making it a preferred destination for complex medical procedures.

Global Recognition and Accreditation

Thailand: Many hospitals in Thailand are internationally accredited, reflecting their commitment to meeting global healthcare standards.

Singapore: Globally accredited medical institutions in Singapore ensure that patients receive care at facilities recognized for their quality and safety.

Language Accessibility

Thailand: Many medical professionals in Thailand are proficient in English, facilitating effective communication with international patients.

Singapore: As an English-speaking country, Singapore ensures language accessibility, eliminating potential communication barriers between healthcare providers and patients.

Ease of Travel

Thailand: Well-connected and with a streamlined medical tourism infrastructure, Thailand offers ease of travel for international patients.

Singapore: A major international travel hub, Singapore provides seamless travel arrangements, enhancing the overall experience for medical tourists.

Navigating Trust in Medical Travel

As clients continue to prioritize cost-effective medical check-ups, the underlying issue of trustworthiness remains a significant consideration. Addressing challenges related to testing consumables, equipment maintenance, training, and privacy standards is essential for healthcare providers to instill confidence and encourage local clients to consider domestic options for their medical needs. Trust is a cornerstone in the evolving landscape of medical travel, and as it improves, so does the potential for the growth of local healthcare services.

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

The healthcare sector in Vietnam has faced significant challenges in recent years, including corruption scandals that rocked the Ministry of Health and a lack of world-class medical facilities. However, there seems to be a glimmer of hope with Thomson Medical Group's (TMG) acquisition of FV Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City. This move has sparked discussions about its potential impact on the quality of healthcare, particularly for the expat community in the country.

A Bit of History on World-Class Healthcare Providers Since 2003

Over the past two decades, the demand for world-class healthcare services has been on the rise globally. Countries like Singapore and Thailand have become medical tourism hubs, attracting patients from around the world seeking top-notch medical treatments and facilities.

These countries have invested heavily in their healthcare infrastructure, attracting renowned healthcare providers and specialists from various fields. Since 2003, they have set a benchmark for the region, offering high-quality medical care and advanced treatment options.

FV Hospital: The Only International Standard Hospital?

Despite the growth of the healthcare sector in Vietnam, FV Hospital remains the only international standard hospital in the country. This lack of competition has allowed FV Hospital to dominate the market, securing its position as the go-to destination for expats seeking quality medical care. Without other international-standard facilities, FV Hospital has enjoyed a favorable position with no level playing field, which has affected the overall healthcare landscape in the country.

The Real Level of Healthcare in Vietnam

Over the past 20 years, Vietnam's healthcare system has made progress but still faces significant challenges. While FV Hospital has been a reputable name, it alone cannot represent the entire healthcare system. The reality is that healthcare in Vietnam, especially outside of FV Hospital and Vinmec, has not reached the same level of international standards seen in neighboring countries like Singapore. This raises questions about the true quality of healthcare available to the general population.

The Healthcare System vs. Competitive Market Forces

The healthcare sector in Vietnam has been facing challenges due to government interventions, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic and the exposure of corruption across the country's provinces. These issues have affected the overall functioning of the healthcare system and have also impacted private healthcare providers' operations, like Vinmec hospitals. Additionally, the lack of significant government support for the private healthcare sector has hindered its growth and expansion.

TMG's High-Value Purchase of FV Hospital

Thomson Medical Group's decision to acquire FV Hospital at a high price, valued at 16.8 times EBITDA, raises eyebrows. The uncertainty surrounding the value of this purchase is a topic of discussion. However, TMG's expertise in the Women and Children's Hospital domain could potentially bring much-needed specialization to FV Hospital, enhancing the overall healthcare services offered.

A Step towards Excellence or Medical Tourism Hub?

With TMG's acquisition of FV Hospital, there is hope that the healthcare sector in Vietnam may be heading towards excellence. The potential focus on specialized areas like Women and Children's healthcare could improve the overall medical services and attract medical tourists seeking specialized treatments. However, for Vietnam to become a true medical tourism hub, significant investments and improvements across various medical specialties will be required.

Lack of Competition and Infrastructure Impacting Costs

The absence of competition and the limited infrastructure for world-class healthcare providers have been detrimental to the growth and cost-effectiveness of the sector. Vinmec hospitals, backed by Vingroup, have struggled due to the parent company's focus on other ventures like Vinfast EV cars. The lack of government support for private healthcare has also contributed to the sector's challenges.

Conclusion

Thomson Medical Group's purchase of FV Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City holds promising potential for Vietnam's healthcare sector, particularly for the expat community seeking quality medical services. However, the true impact of this acquisition will depend on TMG's strategic approach and investments in specialized areas. To truly compete with medical tourism hubs like Singapore and Thailand, Vietnam needs to address infrastructure gaps and promote a supportive environment for private healthcare growth. The road to excellence in healthcare for Vietnam is challenging but achievable with the right vision, strategy, and investments.

Press release : Thomson Medical Group’s Kiat Lim Leads Acquisition of Vietnam’s FV Hospital in Largest Healthcare Deal in SEA since 2020

Estimated reading time: 9 minutes

Accessing high-quality healthcare in Vietnam is a concern for both locals and expatriates. When it comes to specific treatments or surgeries, it is important to navigate the healthcare landscape effectively. In this updated article, we will discuss the current trends and issues regarding finding the best hospital in Vietnam in 2023.

Evaluating the Need for Surgery at a Hospital, do You Really Need it?

Healthcare in Vietnam is still primarily transactional, focused on curative treatments. Hospitals tend to recommend surgeries that they can perform in-house, and referrals to other specialists or peers are rare. It is advisable to seek a second opinion or explore alternative treatments before opting for invasive surgery in Vietnam, as doctors may be hesitant to refer to their peers or admit any weaknesses.

Perhaps you can avoid invasive surgery at a hospital in Vietnam

Culturally doctors see you as a client rather than as a patient. Vietnamese doctors do not refer to their peers or other specialists as they see them as competitors for their clients. Asking for a second opinion or another way to treat is a good practice before opting for a serious hospitalization in Vietnam.

Firstly, at $10/consultation, Vietnamese specialists make money on the drugs they prescribe to you, as advertising and selling medicines is authorized. Did you notice that, in Vietnam, doctors supply medicines without boxes and information? And of course the most money is made on invasive surgery when patients are hospitalized.

Second, private doctors have little relationship with big state-owned hospitals surgeons and have little exchanges with state-of-the-art practice unless they work at à state-hospital on top of their practice, which is fairly common.

Third, referring to a peer is a clear admission of its weakness as a medical professional and would not like the word to spread to his practice clientele and losing face too.  

So they will tend to recommend the procedure they know they can perform.

Specialized Medical Specialties are not Well Represented in Vietnamese Hospitals

Certain medical specialties continue to be underrepresented in Vietnamese hospitals. Based on International SOS evacuation cases, specialties such as neurosurgery, hand microsurgery, cardiology, cancer treatment, virology, rare blood types, burns, rehab centers, serious eye conditions, allergies, blood tests, and pathology still see expat doctors and international clinics recommending medical evacuation to hospitals in Thailand, Singapore, or the patient's home country.

So now you understand even the ‘best hospital’ can only offer what its best surgeon can deliver if he is still resident in Vietnam or in the hospital. As the best surgeons tend to be in high demand, they change hospitals or relocate to better paid capitals like Singapore or Hong Kong. 

Seeking Recommendations from Peers or Asking Expat Groups for Best Hospital in Vietnam is Dangerous

Previously, expats relied on friends or expat groups on Facebook for recommendations. A common question in Facebook expat cum expert groups we see is "What is the best hospital in town?" 

However, the probability of finding someone who had the exact same surgery in Vietnam has remained low. Instead, the key is to find doctors who are well-connected and unbiased, capable of directing patients to the right professor or specialist, whether locally or in a nearby country. A better question would therefore be "who has done this exact same procedure/treatment in Vietnam hospital and what was the outcome?"; unfortunately there are fewer expats to point you to the relevant hospital, especially if they did not survive the said operation surgery.

For instance, in cancer treatment there can be 4 or more ways to cure: ablation, chemotherapy, radiation, immuno, cryoablation, radiofrequency… with more or less side effects and debilitating effects…

Asking a group of expats for the best hospitals to treat a cough (which are usually the advanced lung cancer symptoms) will surely not be of help to cure you swiftly.

Question: What do all those 'International' hospitals in Vietnam have in common?

Answer: None are foreign ownership - all are Vietnamese owned - none is run by an International Healthcare management.

Importance of Doctor-Patient Relationship

Most "international" hospitals in Vietnam are Vietnamese-owned and not managed by international healthcare organizations. Therefore, the focus should be on finding the best doctor or specialist within a hospital. These doctors often work in public or university hospitals, have teaching roles, and participate in international seminars, ensuring their proficiency in English and expertise in their respective fields.

The Real Question is: Where to Find the Best Doctor or Specialist in Which Hospital?

Once you spot the procedure and you are for sure certain that it is the best thing to do for your/your family health, is to find the right doctor whether a specialist or surgeon (eventually that speaks your language) and in which hospital he operates?

Most times, such specialists or professors work in public or University hospital teaching and also traveling with peer doctors to international seminars on their medical specialty, thus speaking good english.

A good practice is to have a doctor as a friend in Vietnam or abroad

Indeed, under the stress of a recommended surgery abroad, you want an unbiased -and friendly-, non-commercial medical advice from a doctor. 

Expat doctors tend to be more concerned with their hippocratic oath and reputation than Vietnamese doctors who can be very opaque should complications arise.

Independent doctors with no stake in recommending a surgeon in his specialty

Establishing a relationship with a doctor, either in Vietnam or abroad, is a valuable practice. In times of recommended surgery abroad, it is crucial to obtain unbiased and non-commercial medical advice. Expat doctors and international outpatient clinics often have extensive networks and can provide referrals within Vietnam or abroad, based on their clients' specific needs.

Expat international outpatient clinics or doctors, as they have no stake in hospitalization invasive surgery and want to keep a pristine reputation to the small world of expats, have their network inside Vietnam (usually for budget clients) or outside to Thailand, Singapore or your home country where they can refer in a few phone calls away.

They can also arrange your appointment with priority as a ‘remote country referrer’ and the medical evacuation too in case of urgency and when no ‘international standard hospital of excellence exists in the country. This applies to countries or island in ASEAN where healthcare is non-existing like Borneo, Bali, Cambodia, Lao… and remote provincial cities of Vietnam.

Read more on Healthcare in Vietnam

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

Since early 2022, the Vietnamese medical sector has been paralyzed by the far-reaching effects of the Viet A corruption system. This extensive network of corruption, spanning 58 provinces, led to a series of arrests and investigations at all levels of the apparatus managed by the Ministry of Health. This article aims to explore the workings of the Viet A system, its consequences on healthcare in Vietnam, and the risks it poses to expats in terms of health and business prospects.

The Viet A Corruption System and its Operation

The Viet A corruption system, discovered in early 2022, is a pervasive network that had infiltrated the Vietnamese medical sector. The system operated through various channels, involving officials at different levels within the Ministry of Health. These corrupt individuals abused their positions to facilitate bribery, embezzlement, and illegal practices.

Viet A Corporation: Key Player in the Corruption System 

The Viet A Corporation played a central role in the corruption network. It acted as a facilitator, connecting corrupt officials with individuals seeking illicit advantages within the medical sector. The corporation was involved in orchestrating kickbacks, bribery schemes, and manipulating procurement processes. Its influence extended across the healthcare system, exacerbating the negative impact of corruption.

Consequences of the Viet A Case on Healthcare 

The consequences of the Viet A corruption case on the healthcare system in Vietnam have been severe. Patients faced increased risks as corrupt officials prioritized personal gain over the welfare of the people. Healthcare services suffered due to embezzlement of funds, resulting in inadequate resources, outdated equipment, and a decline in the quality of care. The trust between doctors and patients was eroded, and the overall reputation of the medical sector was tarnished.

Impact on Foreign Suppliers and Healthcare Providers 

The Viet A case had ramifications not only for the local healthcare providers but also for foreign suppliers. The corruption system distorted the procurement process, favoring certain suppliers in exchange for illicit gains. Foreign suppliers faced unfair competition, limited market access, and the risk of being entangled in corrupt practices. This compromised the ability to deliver quality healthcare products and services to the Vietnamese population.

The aftermath of the Viet A case and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic present an opportunity for a significant overhaul of Vietnam's healthcare industry. To prevent such rampant corruption in the future, there is a need for fine-tuning management rules in the public sector. Increased transparency in bid offers, especially for foreign suppliers, can mitigate corruption risks and encourage fair competition. Implementing stringent controls and reducing intermediaries can help regain public trust and ensure the provision of high-quality healthcare services.

Conclusion

The systemic corruption exposed by the Viet A case has had a devastating impact on Vietnam's medical sector. The freeze in the healthcare system since March 2022 has led to compromised patient care, distrust in the medical profession, and hindered foreign suppliers' ability to contribute effectively. However, the post-COVID and post-Viet A era brings hope for positive change. By implementing stricter regulations, promoting transparency, and reducing intermediaries, Vietnam can revitalize its healthcare industry, improve security for expatriates, and ensure the well-being of its citizens.

More articles in the news

1. VnExpress International: This news website provides comprehensive coverage of the Viet A case, including updates on the investigations, arrests, and its impact on Vietnam's healthcare system.
2. VietnamNet: VietnamNet is another reliable news source that extensively covers the Viet A corruption case, offering insights into the individuals involved, the corruption network, and its consequences on healthcare in Vietnam.

Estimated reading time: 9 minutes

Most people, including expats, have no close relationship with Vietnam healthcare. Once facing the prospect of a specific treatment or surgery, expats will rely on their friends or expat groups in Facebook. Let’s face it, what is the probability that your ‘friend’ had the exact same surgery case to treat in Vietnam? Was it recently enough for the treating surgeon to still be here?

If your treating doctor recommends surgery at a hospital, do you really need it?

Healthcare in Vietnam is ‘transactional’ as opposed to purely transformational ie. curative. In other words, it is a business where the hospital recommends surgery that  they know they can do inside their hospital. Referral to a peer is rare and knowledge of the best practice specialists abroad is never done by doctors in Vietnam. It is slightly more common with foreign doctors… if they are long-term residents and know their way around.

Perhaps you can avoid invasive surgery at a hospital in Vietnam

Culturally doctors see you as a client rather than as a patient. Vietnamese doctors do not refer to their peers or other specialists as they see them as competitors for their clients. Asking for a second opinion or another way to treat is a good practice before opting for a serious hospitalization in Vietnam.

Firstly, at $10/consultation, Vietnamese specialists make money on the drugs they prescribe to you, as advertising and selling medicines is authorized. Did you notice that, in Vietnam, doctors supply medicines without boxes and information? And of course the most money is made on invasive surgery when patients are hospitalized.

Second, private doctors have little relationship with big state-owned hospitals surgeons and have little exchanges with state-of-the-art practice unless they work at à state-hospital on top of their practice, which is fairly common.

Third, referring to a peer is a clear admission of its weakness as a medical professional and would not like the word to spread to his practice clientele and losing face too.  

So they will tend to recommend the procedure they know they can perform.

Some medical specialties are not well represented in hospitals in Vietnam

Did you know, since Vietnam opened in the 1990s till now, expat doctors and international clinics still recommend medical evacuation to an international hospital in Thailand, Singapore or your home country.

The main specialties poorly represented, as per International SOS evacuation cases are: neuro surgery, hands microsurgery, cardiology, cancer treatment, virology, rare blood types -as there is no reliable blood bank-, burns, rehab centers, serious eye conditions, allergies, blood tests and pathology.

Quite often in Asian developing countries we can see a frenzy of text messages looking for B or AB blood urgently for a road accident or imminent surgery.

So now you understand even the ‘best hospital’ can only offer what its best surgeon can deliver if he is still resident in Vietnam or in the hospital. As the best surgeons tend to be in high demand, they change hospitals or relocate to better paid capitals like Singapore or Hong Kong. 

Asking expat groups for best hospital in Vietnam is dangerous

A common question in Facebook expat cum expert groups we see is ‘What is the best hospital in town. 

A better question would be ‘who has done this exact same procedure/treatment in Vietnam hospital and what was the outcome’; unfortunately there are fewer expats to point you to the relevant hospital, especially if they did not survive the said operation surgery.

For instance, in cancer treatment there can be 4 or more ways to cure: ablation, chemotherapy, radiation, immuno, cryoablation, radiofrequency… with more or less side effects and debilitating effects…

Asking a group of expats for the best hospitals to treat a cough (which are usually the advanced lung cancer symptoms) will surely not be of help to cure you swiftly.

Question: What do all those 'International' hospitals in Vietnam have in common?

Answer: None are foreign ownership - all are Vietnamese owned - none is run by an International Healthcare management.

The real question is: where to find the best doctor or specialist in which hospital?

Once you spot the procedure and you are for sure certain that it is the best thing to do for your/your family health, is to find the right doctor whether a specialist or surgeon (eventually that speaks your language) and in which hospital he operates?

Most times, such specialists or professors work in public or University hospital teaching and also traveling with peer doctors to international seminars on their medical specialty, thus speaking good english.

A good practice is to have a doctor as a friend in Vietnam or abroad

Indeed, under the stress of a recommended surgery abroad, you want an unbiased -and friendly-, non-commercial medical advice from a doctor. 

Expat doctors tend to be more concerned with their hippocratic oath and reputation than Vietnamese doctors who can be very opaque should complications arise.

Independent doctors with no stake in recommending a surgeon in his specialty

Expat international outpatient clinics or doctors, as they have no stake in hospitalization invasive surgery and want to keep a pristine reputation to the small world of expats, have their network inside Vietnam (usually for budget clients) or outside to Thailand, Singapore or your home country where they can refer in a few phone calls away.

They can also arrange your appointment with priority as a ‘remote country referrer’ and the medical evacuation too in case of urgency and when no ‘international standard hospital of excellence exists in the country. This applies to countries or island in ASEAN where healthcare is non-existing like Borneo, Bali, Cambodia, Lao… and remote provincial cities of Vietnam.

Read more on Healthcare in Vietnam

Covid travel insurance to Vietnam, Asia and Worldwide

Travel Visitors to Vietnam for work Expatriation or Tourism, may need a travel insurance to cover the costs of Covid with a minimum limit of $25K, 50, 80 or $100,000. In effect, it is a medical insurance that is requested because a Covid ICU hospitalization is a minimum of 20 days including the recovery time and the 2 PCR negative tests

• Vietnam Travel pass by Luma Health Thailand
• Thailand Travel pass by Luma Health Vietnam
• ASEAN Travel pass -for serious travelers in multiple ASEAN countries-
• Rest-of-the-World travel pass -for any duration, anywhere- by ACS Globe partners
• For expats visiting their home countries your worldwide heath insurance may cover you or this travel plan -is a bit special as they are the rare one to cover a Country citizen traveling in its own country-   ACS globe traveller will do the job.
  NB. the rationale behind being a British is not supposed to buy a travel insurance to visit the UK.