PUBLISHED: 28 Sep 2024 at 04: 00
The 30-baht widespread medical insurance plan has been actually expanded by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, allowing Bangkok residents to access medical services at all authorized clinics, pharmacies, or medical facilities in addition to hospitals.
Ms Paetongtarn, speaking at the start meeting for the program’s growth, said that it is time to raise the 30-baht healthcare scheme– actually introduced by her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, during his tenure as perfect minister– to the next level. The scheme is transitioning from” 30-baht treatment for all diseases” to” 30-baht treatment at all locations”.
After its first release in four pilot regions on January 7, the updated version of the system is now accessible in Bangkok.
It now covers 46 regions, including the money.
Ms Paetongtarn announced that cardholders in need of minor medical attention can then seek help at local healthcare units near their homes, such as pharmacies, major clinics, medical clinics, mobile health units, and telemedicine kiosks, free of charge.
Individuals may receive attention at these key healthcare facilities in a manner similar to that in big hospitals, but without lengthy waiting periods, she said.
She added that this development will significantly lower the load for skilled workers at facilities and lower travel costs for patients.
She noted that “big hospitals are better suited for those who suffer from serious conditions like cancer and heart disease.”
The prime minister praised the organization’s accomplishments over the past eight months, noting that a quarter of patients now prefer to use primary healthcare facilities rather than hospitals.
She stated that 98 % of patients are happy with the program and that it will be expanded nationwide by the end of the year.
In a separate development, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration ( BMA ) has signed a 30-year lease with Wat Pak Nam in Bangkok’s Phasi Charoen district to rent the temple’s 12-rai plot of land.
Phra Mongkoltepmunee Hospital, a joint venture between the BMA and the Office of National Buddhism, will be located at this location.
The hospital is expected to serve approximately 945, 000 residents in the Phasi Charoen area and nearby districts, including Bang Khae, Bang Bon, Rat Burana, Chom Thong, Thon Buri, Bangkok Yai, and Taling Chan, it was reported.