The new year has brought us OFWs here in Thailand many blessings and challenges. While many of us are enjoying good health, yet some of us wouldn’t be lucky to face the rest of the year. A total of seven Thailand-based Filipinos already died since the beginning of this year 2020. And just yesterday, the Filipina who went back to the Philippines last Christmas to continue her medication passed away.
Most cases are health related deaths. Two Filipinos died on January 31 alone. Teacher Jaime “James” Ando Baguio succumbed to cancer in the afternoon while another Filipino died of heart failure in the evening.
As the saying goes, health is wealth. As OFWs it is important that we take care of our health. Needless to say, we should prioritize our health especially that most of us are far from our loved ones.
Here are some reminders to help us to stay in the pink.
- Regularly visit your physician for a physical check. If your doctor gave you a maintenance prescription like high blood medication, cholesterol meds etc., take them religiously.
- If you are not feeling well (flu-like symptoms, fever especially at night for at least 2-3 days), go to the doctor right away. Missing a day in school to see a doctor is always the best choice than waiting for your symptoms to get worse.
- Wear a mask when there is a high smog alert in your area.
- Drink lots of liquids/water and take advantage of the seasonal fruits from the nearest Talard in your area.
- If your employer doesn’t provide you with health and or life insurance policy, get one yourself. It is more practical and necessary.
- Update your PhilHealth and Social Security System (SSS) in the Philippines. You can refund your hospital expenses with them.
- Enroll at Social Security in Thailand (SSO). You can get more details at SSO website or through this website.
We will soon be publishing an article on Social Security in Thailand (SSO). Special thanks to Neil Roque and Jo Smith Medina for their inputs.
Learn more about SSO on this website.
Photo: epicworldphotography