Lets consider this opening post. It is absolutely correct. I was there and came to the same conclusion but didn't report on it because it was , like many of these so called seminars ,merely a thought identifying process.Ideas are tossed into the air like so many balloons. Some will stick to the ceiling, some will deflate and fall to the ground.In this instance it would appear this one has stuck as a further seminar has been scheduled for this Monday in Udon at which the team from central immigration office will be present.Maybe after this either Ralph or myself may be in a better position to clarify our understanding of the visa implications.Maybe not.!
But a little background info may not go amiss.
For some time now it has been a concern of the govt that many farang do not have the financial ability to withstand a major health crisis in their life. Unfortunately this is most apparent in the group holding retirement visa's, who , unfortunately face a double whammy ,in that as older citizens they are more likely to be ill but at the same time , because of their age are denied insurance cover at an affordable cost.The obvious answer, at least as far as immigration is concerned appears to be another requirement that needs to be satisfied to qualify.Fortunately the govt organisation holding the seminars Ralph and I attend have a far more sympathetic approach to the problem and are working with the appropriate health care providers, hospitals, doctors and nursing staff to come up with a rather more affordable answer to the problem.I don't want to go into great detail as its another floating balloon at present but it centers round the current social security that is available to all Thai people in full time employment, whereby for a monthly contribution , I think its about 450 bht, they are covered for most hospital stays and medication, simply paying for the room if they require upgrade from a standard ward. This naturally is in govt run hospitals not private ones . Although I understand Wattana does accept the standard benefit payable to offset against their charges.Now no specific cost to the farang has been mentioned so if implemented that would still have to be decided. The first hurdle to overcome would be to ensure it meets with the immigration requirement as to our ability to pay should we need treatment.
So please gentlemen. No jumping to conclusions about those 'wicked" immigration people placing more obstacles in our path. They are doing what any govt is entitled to do. Making sure immigrants to the country do not become a burden to the country. Other govt depts are actually fighting in our corner to find an answer acceptable to all parties.That is why I ,and I am sure Ralph as well are proud to be asked to help them in that task.
The lifeblood of a vibrant society. I have participated in such efforts in a past life.
In America we call these "focus groups". I have participated in some, even moderated a few. Their reports generally are filed away, mostly unread. I suspect the same applies in Thailand. But we shall see. 
