Your Complete Guide to Costs, Success Rates, Recovery, and World-Class Hospitals
Thailand and Malaysia have earned global trust as leading destinations for heart procedures. Between them, they care for hundreds of thousands of patients from across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, Australia, and beyond.
Hospitals like Bumrungrad International in Bangkok and Subang Jaya Medical Centre (SJMC) in Malaysia stand out for their advanced cardiac treatments and reputation of high success rates.
At Bumrungrad International Hospital alone, more than 520,000 international patients from over 190 countries are treated each year, many for complex heart conditions.
Subang Jaya Medical Centre (SJMC) is renowned for its advanced heart treatments, performing Malaysia’s first open-heart surgery and being named among Asia Pacific’s best specialised hospitals for cardiology in 2025 by Newsweek.
This guide is designed to help you make an informed, confident choice between these two outstanding countries and specifically these 2 hospitals.
We’ll explore what matters most when you’re planning heart surgery abroad:
- What will it cost, and what’s included?
- What is the success rate of heart surgery at each hospital?
- How long will you stay in hospital?
- What support can you expect as an international patient?
- What makes each hospital a trusted choice for cardiac and cardiovascular care?
At My 1Health, we help you access the best of Bumrungrad International Hospital and Subang Jaya Medical Centre with ease.
From scheduling consultations, arranging telemedicine appointments, securing cost estimates, and assisting with medical visa applications to booking airport transfers and accommodation near the hospital, we guide you through every step.
Our goal is to make your heart care journey in Thailand or Malaysia as smooth and stress-free as possible, so you can focus on what matters most: your health and recovery.
Bumrungrad International Hospital – Bangkok, Thailand
Website: Bumrungrad International Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand
Bumrungrad International Hospital is one of Asia’s most trusted private hospitals for heart surgery and cardiology, treating 1.1M+ patients each year.
Located in Bangkok, a global medical tourism hub, Bumrungrad is renowned for its advanced heart treatments and exceptional safety record.
It was the first hospital in Asia accredited by the US-based Joint Commission International (JCI) and has been re-accredited 5 times, reflecting its long-standing commitment to quality and patient safety
Read: Cardiac Care and Treatment at Bumrungrad Hospital, Thailand
What truly sets Bumrungrad Herat Institute apart is its results:
- 350+ coronary angioplasties annually, with a 99%+ success rate, exceeding the US benchmark of 95%.
- 70+ open-heart surgeries annually at its dedicated Heart Institute.
- 30+ pacemaker implantations and 80+ electrophysiology studies per year.
- 600+ coronary angiographies each year.
- Zero deaths in TAVI procedures since 2016.
- Zero deaths in atrial fibrillation (AF) and ventricular tachycardia (VT) procedures.
- 0% rate of stenosis or balloon ruptures during angioplasty (compared to Thailand’s national rate of 0.22%).
The facility combines robotic-assisted cardiac surgery, hybrid operating rooms, AI-supported diagnostics, intravascular ultrasound, and minimally invasive techniques.
With over 100 interpreters across 20+ languages, including English, Arabic, Mandarin, Japanese, Russian, communication is seamless for international patients.
International patients are supported throughout their journey with visa assistance, airport transfers, accommodation bookings, and access to medical records — ensuring your experience is as stress-free as possible.
Leading experts like Professor Dr Koonlawee Nademanee, globally recognised in arrhythmia care, and Dr Visuit Vivekaphirat, known for a 99%+ angioplasty success rate, make Bumrungrad a top choice for complex heart procedures.
Subang Jaya Medical Centre (SJMC) – Greater Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Website: Subang Jaya Medical Centre in Subang Jaya, Malaysia
Subang Jaya Medical Centre offers the latest and most advanced heart treatments, making it a top choice for many international patients who want treatment without compromising affordability.
Located approximately 20 kilometers west of Kuala Lumpur, the facility is known for:
- Named one of the best specialised hospitals in Asia Pacific for cardiology by Newsweek (2025)
- 40 years of expertise, consistently leading Malaysia in cardiac innovation
- Performed the Malaysia's first open-heart surgery
- Adopted Carto® 3 system for advanced cardiac mapping and flowmetry for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG)
- Joint Commission International (JCI) and Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) accreditations
Get connected to SJMC to inquire about your heart condition and get a tailored cost estimate
What makes SJMC truly unique is its focus on precision and patient-tailored cardiac surgery.
Its use of endoscopic vein harvesting (EVH) for CABG minimises scarring and speeds up recovery, while the integration of flowmetry during bypass surgery allows surgeons to measure real-time blood flow, reducing complications and improving graft longevity.
International patients at Subang Jaya benefit from assistance with visa applications and accommodation to interpreter services. The hospital’s multilingual team ensures that language is never a barrier to care, whether you speak English, Malay, Mandarin, or Tamil.
Among the standout specialists is Dr Ahmad Nizar Jamaluddin, known for his expertise in coronary artery bypass surgery using advanced techniques like flowmetry, ensuring every procedure is as precise and safe as possible.
Comparison at a Glance
| Aspect | Bumrungrad International Hospital | Subang Jaya Medical Centre |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Bangkok, Thailand | Subang Jaya, Malaysia |
| Accreditations | JCI (5x re-accredited), GHA | JCI, MSQH |
| Technology Highlights | Robotic surgery, hybrid OR, AI, ECMO | Flowmetry for CABG, EVH, Carto® 3, Robotic |
| Key Success Data | 99%+ success in coronary interventions; 0 TAVI deaths since 2016 | High CABG precision with flowmetry; recognised among APAC’s best |
| Languages Supported | 20+ with interpreters | English, Malay, Mandarin, Tamil + IPC interpreters |
Heart Procedures Offered: Bumrungrad vs Subang Jaya Medical Centre
If you are planning heart surgery in Thailand or Malaysia, both Bumrungrad International Hospital and Subang Jaya Medical Centre (SJMC) provide advanced cardiology and cardiovascular treatments.
However, each hospital brings its own strengths in technology, technique, and patient care.
Bumrungrad International Hospital – Bangkok, Thailand
- Coronary Angioplasty & Stenting
Performed with robotic assistance and intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) for precise stent placement. Bumrungrad’s coronary interventions have a 99%+ success rate, exceeding US benchmarks (95%). - Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG)
Offers minimally invasive and robotic-assisted CABG using advanced hybrid operating rooms. Patients benefit from faster recovery and reduced complications. - Valve Replacement & Repair (TAVI, SAVR)
Bumrungrad specialises in Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) — with a 0% mortality rate in TAVI since 2016 — alongside conventional open surgery for complex valve disease. - Electrophysiology & Arrhythmia Treatment
Home to Thailand’s leading arrhythmia team, led by Prof. Dr Koonlawee Nademanee. Treatments include radiofrequency ablation with CARTO mapping, pacemaker and ICD implantation, and advanced 3D cardiac mapping. - Congenital Heart Surgery
Experienced in repairing structural heart defects, with multidisciplinary teams supporting lifelong care for congenital conditions. - Heart Failure Management
From medication to ECMO support and advanced devices, Bumrungrad provides comprehensive care for patients with severe heart failure. - Cardiac Preventive Programs
Includes Calcium Scoring CT (THB 6,770 package), genetic screening for cardiac risk, and tailored sports cardiology evaluations.
Subang Jaya Medical Centre – Greater Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Coronary Angioplasty (PCI)
Performed with precision imaging (Carto® 3 system) and advanced catheterisation techniques. SJMC emphasises affordability without compromising technology. - Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG)
SJMC uses flowmetry during CABG to measure graft blood flow in real-time, enhancing long-term outcomes. Endoscopic Vein Harvesting (EVH) reduces scarring and speeds recovery. - Valve Surgery & Minimally Invasive Valve Repair
Includes SAVR and MitraClip procedures for patients unsuitable for open surgery. Surgeons use imaging and mapping tools to guide repairs safely. - Electrophysiology & Arrhythmia Services
The hospital offers radiofrequency ablation, pacemaker and ICD implantation, and detailed arrhythmia diagnosis using Carto® 3. - Congenital & Pediatric Heart Care
A center of excellence for congenital heart disease, SJMC offers pediatric cardiology and surgery, with long-term follow-up into adulthood. - Cardiac CT Angiogram Package
A comprehensive package priced at RM 3,000 (~USD 650), including calcium scoring, blood tests, and cardiologist review — offering clarity for patients seeking diagnosis or second opinions. - Heart Failure Treatment
Includes medical therapy, device implantation, and surgical options tailored to patient risk profiles.
Cost of Procedures and Screenings: Bumrungrad vs Subang Jaya Medical Centre
When planning heart surgery or cardiac screening abroad, knowing the cost — and what’s included — is a top concern.
Both Bumrungrad International Hospital in Bangkok and Subang Jaya Medical Centre (SJMC) in Malaysia offer transparent packages and clear pricing to help you plan with confidence.
While prices may differ for local and international patients, both hospitals remain far more affordable than similar procedures in the US, Europe, or Australia, while offering world-class care.
Bumrungrad International Hospital – Thailand
Key examples of heart-related costs at Bumrungrad:
- Heart Screening Package (Calcium Scoring CT):
Normal: THB 6,770 (~USD 207) | Promo: THB 4,739 (~USD 145).
Includes: Radiologist’s report, doctor’s review, diagnostic service, outpatient nursing fee. - Heart Screening – CT Coronary Artery:
Normal: THB 38,170 (~USD 1,165) | Promo: THB 26,719 (~USD 815). - Heart Screening – Stress Echo:
Normal: THB 26,650 (~USD 810) | Promo: THB 18,655 (~USD 570). - Heart Screening – Echo or Treadmill:
Normal: THB 14,700 (~USD 450) | Promo: THB 10,290 (~USD 315). - Full body MRI:
THB 30,000–50,000 (~USD 900–1,500), depending on scope and consultations. - Heart Transplant (for advanced heart failure cases):
Estimated at ~USD 80,000, including pre-op assessments, hospital stay, surgery, and immediate follow-up care.
Subang Jaya Medical Centre (SJMC) – Malaysia
Key examples of heart-related costs at SJMC:
- Cardiac CT Angiogram Package:
RM 3,000 (~USD 650).
Includes: Cardiac CT angiogram, coronary calcium scoring, full blood exam, lipid & liver function tests, kidney function test, diabetes screen, hepatitis screen, syphilis test, thyroid screening, cardiologist review of results. - Coronary Angiogram or Angioplasty:
While costs can vary, angiograms often start from RM 10,000 (~USD 2,200), with angioplasty depending on stents and complexity (usually RM 25,000+ (~USD 5,500+)). - Coronary Bypass Surgery (CABG):
Typically ranges from RM 50,000–RM 80,000 (~USD 11,000–18,000) depending on the number of grafts, technology used (e.g., flowmetry), and hospital stay.
SJMC provides bundled cost estimates upfront for international patients, including pre-op tests, surgery, ICU stay, ward stay, and standard follow-up during admission.
Get connected to Subang Jaya international patient team to inquire about your heart condition and get a tailored cost estimateWhat’s Included?
Both hospitals generally include the following in major cardiac procedure pricing for international patients:
- Pre-operative diagnostics and assessments
- Surgery or intervention
- ICU stay (where required)
- Standard hospital ward stay (often 5–10 days for major surgery like CABG)
- Post-procedure review before discharge
Additional Costs: Take-home medication, follow-up consultations after discharge, extra tests for complications, and extended stays beyond standard recovery times.
Are Prices Different for Local vs International Patients?
Yes. Bumrungrad’s prices for international patients are often higher than local rates, as Thai nationals may have government insurance that offsets costs.
SJMC also offers rates that are competitive for self-paying foreigners, though local patients with insurance may pay less.
Both hospitals encourage patients to request a personalised quote to understand total costs based on their condition, procedure, and stay duration.
Inquire more about a personalised cost estimate from either Bumrungrad or Subang Jaya
Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur? Choosing the Best City and Hospital for Heart Surgery
When you’re planning heart surgery abroad, it’s not just about the hospital — the city where you recover matters too:
Bangkok: Thailand’s Global Hub for Premium Medical Tourism
Bangkok is one of Asia’s most visited cities and a major hub for international medical tourists seeking heart surgery in Thailand. The city offers:
- Easy visa-on-arrival or e-visa options for citizens of many countries, with streamlined medical visa support from hospitals like Bumrungrad.
- 1400+ daily international flights connect Bangkok to every corner of the world, making travel simple and flexible.
- A wide choice of luxury hotels, wellness resorts, and world-class Thai spas for post-operative recovery — many located near the hospital.
- Rich cultural and dining experiences that patients and families can enjoy during their stay.
Kuala Lumpur: Affordable Excellence and Cultural Comfort
Subang Jaya, part of the Greater Kuala Lumpur area, offers a welcoming and practical base for international heart patients. This city appeals for its:
- Affordable cost of living, making long-term stays easier for patients and families managing costs.
- Strong English proficiency, reducing language barriers at every touchpoint.
- A wide range of halal dining options, reflecting Malaysia’s rich cultural diversity and Muslim-friendly environment.
- Reliable public transport, with easy access to SJMC and major hotels.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Bangkok + Bumrungrad Heart Institute if you’re seeking complex heart surgery, the latest technologies, and a city designed for international medical travelers. Bangkok’s hospital-hotel ecosystem and Bumrungrad’s premium services mean you can focus entirely on your recovery with peace of mind.
Reach out to Bumrungrad Heart Institute's international Patient Support Team
Choose Kuala Lumpur + SJMC if you want cardiac care with modern techniques at a price point that offers significant savings. The city’s comfort, cultural familiarity for many international patients, and SJMC’s reputation for precise, safe procedures make it ideal for those seeking value without compromise.
Reach out to Subang Jaya's international Patient Support Team
