How to Verify if a Clinic is Legitimate or Illegal: Quick 1-Minute Verification Guide for Doctors and Patients
Thailand's Medical Council has released a simple one-minute verification guide to help doctors and patients distinguish between legitimate and illegal clinics. The verification can be done through the Department of Health Service Support website by searching for a clinic's license number or name. Doctors are warned about legal and ethical consequences of working at unlicensed facilities, while patients are encouraged to verify clinic credentials before seeking treatment.
How to Verify if a Clinic is Legitimate or Illegal: Quick 1-Minute Verification Guide for Doctors and Patients
On April 26, 2025, Dr. Itthiporn Kanchaerun, Secretary of the Medical Council, shared an easy method to verify whether a clinic you plan to work at or receive treatment from is properly licensed according to law. The system uses the Department of Health Service Support (HSS) under the Ministry of Public Health.
Verification Steps: Visit the website: https://hosp.hss.moph.go.th/
On the homepage, select a search option by choosing either: license number or healthcare facility name. Enter your search information and click "Search."
The system will display detailed information about the facility, including the clinic name, address, license type, operator, healthcare professionals, and license status.
If no information is found or the license has expired or been revoked, the clinic may not be operating with proper authorization.
Recommendations for Doctors: Before agreeing to work or operate a clinic, always verify that it holds a valid Healthcare Facility Operation License (SP.7) and Healthcare Facility Operation Permit (SP.19), with matching operator details and appropriate facility classification. Working at an unlicensed clinic can result in legal and ethical violations, with penalties including imprisonment and license revocation, especially if patients are harmed or die.
Recommendations for Patients: Before seeking treatment at a suspicious clinic with unusual advertising, verify the clinic name through the website for your safety. Legitimate clinics must clearly display the facility name, license number, and doctor's name. If a clinic has no records in the system or exhibits suspicious behavior, report it to the Department of Health Service Support at hotline 1426.
A quick verification taking just minutes can effectively protect both healthcare providers and patients.