The Health Service Support Department is in consultation with the Office of Insurance Commission and insurance companies to include surrogacy in the health insurance scheme , as the birth rate is falling and Thailand becomes an aging society.

The department’s director-general, Dr Sura Wisedsak, said that there are now 114 hospitals and clinics in Thailand offering assisted reproduction technology (ART) to couples who have difficulty conceiving or carrying a pregnancy to full term.

The success of ART is about 46%, which is regarded as high, he said, adding that safety for the mothers is also a matter of concern.

He said that the insurance service for surrogate mothers now under consideration will provide coverage from the time they become pregnant until 30 days after delivery, illness, complications during pregnancy and post-natal care.

Insurance policies for surrogacy are expected to be ready by the third quarter of this year, said Dr. Sura.