PUBLISHED: 6 Feb 2025 at 04: 00
Tak: The Tak Provincial Public Health Office is gearing up for an influx of people from immigrant tents along the Thai-Myanmar borders, with around 40, 000-50, 000 people expected.
Donald Trump, the president of the United States, recently decided to stop funding the International Rescue Committee ( IRC ).
The Nu Po Refugee Camp’s care companies have been halted since Jan 27 according to public health officials at Tak’s Umphang area. Only emergency individuals can receive care, while non-emergency situations can no longer get served.
There are nine migrant camps in the area, home to about 90, 000 migrants. They were established over three decades ago to help those who were escaping the turmoil in Myanmar, and for many centuries have received aid from the United States and other European nations.
Clinics that have relied on IRC money to treat refugees have been concerned about this funding’s interruption.
Local facilities are now having trouble meeting the demands of the universal healthcare system and are now under the additional strain of caring for tens of thousands of immigrants. The issue is how to use the available resources to address this rise in demand.
Pitakpong Chandaeng, captain of the Tak Provincial Public Health Office, said authorities have met late to determine how to manage the situation.
People from refugee camps were originally taken care of by public wellness units funded by the IRC, but with the money suspended, these units are prioritising the treatment of common diseases, autoimmune conditions, psychiatric disorders, disease and emergencies, he said.
Due to plans to subpoena funding from various NGOs, Dr. Pitakpong said the models may have to continue operating this way for the time being.
Now, there are three evacuation areas or temporary shelters in Tak, catering to about 40, 000 to 50, 000 immigrants. The Mae La Center in Tha Song Yang, the Umpium Center in Phop Phra, and the Nu Po Center in Umphang are just a few examples.
Worawit Tantiwattanasap, chairman of Umphang Hospital, proposed setting up a regional account to obtain funds.
The emphasis would be placed on charitable rules and making sure that no migrant is charged for cure, he said.