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In 2023, the number of doctors in Thailand increased from the previous year to around *. 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 ** 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 * to , meaning one doctor is responsible for almost people. In comparison to other ASEAN member countries, doctors or physicians in the Philippines have a higher workload, with a ratio of *** doctor per * 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 .

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.