The Ministry of Public Health in Thailand has pledged to investigate complaints about some of the 200 partner clinics in Bangkok, involved in its universal healthcare coverage plan, also known as the 30-baht scheme. The Vice Minister, Thanakit Jitareerat, announced yesterday that the Department of Health Service Support (DOHSS) and the National Health Security Office (NHSO) will jointly conduct the investigation.

 

Agency officials will inspect the clinics to ensure they are abiding by the ministry's regulations. A legal team will also determine whether any clinics have violated the rules. Any clinics not willing to comply with their agreement should end their contract, according to the Vice Minister.

 

It is estimated that around 10 out of the 200 clinics could potentially have issues. Most of the complaints from patients arise from being denied or delayed a referral paper when seeking a transfer to another hospital. According to Jitareerat, this could be because clinics may lose income from the ministry if they allow a transfer.

 

The Vice Minister said he would personally lead the investigative team to resolve the issues swiftly. He acknowledged potential concerns about public confidence in the healthcare scheme but said minor problems in any project are normal.

 

Bangkok recently joined 46 other provinces where residents can access primary healthcare services by merely showing their national ID. Jitareerat announced that the scheme would soon extend to all 77 provinces, and any minor problems will be addressed on the way. Additionally, the ministry plans to increase the number of primary healthcare units in Bangkok by collaborating with more clinics under the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration.

 

File photo for reference only

 

-- 2024-06-21

 

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you think there might be a little bit of fraud involved, this being thailand... only 10 with issues?