There is a distinct difference in the standard of health care between Bangkok and the provinces. In many ways, health care in Bangkok matches the standards of health care in Western cities, at least for those who have enough money. In rural areas, however, health care has to be considered barely adequate on a Western scale. Health care in Thailand has both private and public institutions. Private institutions generally have higher standards, and one can usually say the more expensive the better.
Luxurious hospitalization is available at some private hospitals.
It is a custom that when a Thai is hospitalized, family members, friends or a companion stays with the patient most of the time. Rooms in private hospitals usually provide sleeping space for at least one companion per patient. There are usually no set visiting hours and at least in the case of private rooms, there is 24 hour access. Common opinion is that private hospitals generally require a deposit before admission. But of course, as provided by law and medical ethics, doctors will attend to any patient in an emergency situation, without asking for money in advance.