Shock treatment

I went from Thailand to the US without thinking much about the medicine I require. The 30 tablets I had with me I had purchased in Thailand for US$30 (1,100 baht). When that box was empty and I needed more medicine I got a nasty shock.

First the little shock at the doctor — $100 for the five minutes to get the prescription. Then the big shock at the pharmacy. The Walgreens pharmacy wanted about $900 for 30 tablets which I refused with a laugh keeping in mind what I have paid in Thailand. The next offer was $600 for a generic version and finally I got it for $125 after signing a $25 membership.

Well, the US is a real shock and the most scary place to be for those of us coming from countries with free universal health care, a solidarity system working for everybody for generations where I come from. It is said that most prescription medicines cost five to seven times more in the US than in Europe. I suppose Thais will get an even bigger shock than I got going to the US and trying to obtain prescription medicine.

The huge price difference on medicines and health care is similar to the exorbitant price for travel insurance.

If you go to the US you have to pay much more for your travel insurance compared with the rest of the world.

Amazing? So then, what are the chances that the TPP will bring affordable medicines to Thailand, not only to the rich elite but all Thais?

A JOHNSEN