Bangkok: Anutin Charnvirakul, the current Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, has countered claims made by Dr. Chonlanan Srikaew regarding the initiation of Thailand’s 30-baht universal healthcare policy.
According to Thai News Agency, digital footprint data indicates that Prime Minister Chonlanan Srikaew, who is also a Pheu Thai Party MP for Nan, inaccurately claimed the policy was self-initiated during his tenure. However, the policy was actually introduced during Anutin’s previous tenure as Minister of Public Health in the 2020 government led by Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha. Evidence from various digital sources, including a keynote address by Anutin in November 2020, highlights his role in upgrading the 4-Service Gold Card to a modern healthcare system, a key milestone in the 30-baht universal healthcare scheme.
Anutin emphasized that the upgraded healthcare service, which began in Bangkok and aimed to expand nationwide by 2022, allows for the treatment of general illnesses at primary care units. This initiative was designed to enable broader and more convenient access to healthcare services. Anutin’s vision includes a linked database that permits patients to receive treatment across different provinces without the need for extensive procedures.
The 30-baht universal healthcare scheme, according to Anutin, covers a wide range of illnesses, including cancer. Starting January 1, 2021, cancer patients can receive treatment at any equipped hospital, reducing waiting times and bypassing traditional service unit restrictions. The Ministry of Public Health has also secured additional radiation therapy machines to enhance cancer care across the nation.
Furthermore, the policy reforms include allowing inpatients to access any hospital without referrals, initially rolling out in Health Region 9 and targeting nationwide implementation by 2022. These changes aim to simplify the healthcare system and provide immediate access to services. Anutin assured that the government is committed to improving public health, with support from the Cabinet for swift policy approvals.
The overarching goal of these reforms is to improve the quality of life for Thai citizens, ensuring accessible and efficient healthcare services. Anutin concluded by expressing confidence that a robust healthcare system would contribute to Thailand’s recovery from the COVID-19 crisis and enhance national prosperity.