Number of doctors Thailand 2014-2023
In 2023, the number of doctors in Thailand increased from the previous year to around 42,400. On the other hand, the number of physicians in the country has fluctuated since 2011. In comparison, the number of pharmacists has a steady increase since 2012.
Well over one thousand population per doctor
The shortage of medical staff in Thailand has been a serious issue for a long time. Nevertheless, the number has been improving in the past decade. In 2023, Thailand had a doctor-to-population ratio of around 1 to 1,500, meaning one doctor is responsible for almost 1,500 people. In comparison to other ASEAN member countries, doctors or physicians in the Philippines have a higher workload, with a ratio of one doctor per 26,000 population in 2022. Despite a better ratio compared to the Philippines, Thailand’s doctor-to-population ratio is still below the World Health Organization (WHO) standard, which is a ratio of 1 to 1,000.
Becoming a doctor in Thailand
According to the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI), the most significant factor affecting the shortage of doctors is the long path to becoming a doctor in Thailand. The six-year Doctor of Medicine (MD) program is divided into three phases, comprising general education, basic medical science, and gaining clinical experience in hospitals across Thailand. After completing the MD program, a graduate can continue additional postgraduate training for three to four years to become a specialist.
