Thailand Urged to Boost Health Services for Border Refugees

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod

The Ministry of Public Health in Thailand faces growing pressure to improve healthcare services in refugee shelters along the Thai-Myanmar border. This comes as the United States halts funding for health programs run by the International Rescue Committee for three months, prompting the closure of some facilities in these shelters.

Surapong Kongchantuk, a former subcommittee chair on ethnic human rights, highlighted the urgent need for permanent healthcare facilities and volunteer health workers in these temporary shelters. Surapong has a long history of advocacy for stateless individuals and migrant workers, emphasizing that without proper healthcare, the risk of infectious diseases spreading increases.

In response, Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin announced measures such as setting up a command center for patient care coordination, issuing guidelines to border hospitals, and deploying weekly mobile medical teams. There's also a push for telemedicine to minimize travel needs.

The ministry aims to address immediate healthcare needs with an emergency referral system to major hospitals, the provision of special ambulances, and enhanced funding for border hospitals. Additional medical supplies and sanitation measures are also in place.

However, Surapong argues these steps are insufficient. He insists on the need for on-site permanent healthcare resources and trained medical staff within shelters, emphasizing the fundamental human right to healthcare.

The refugee situation has worsened with reduced international aid. Surapong suggests allowing refugees to work legally in Thailand, addressing both their livelihood needs and the country's labor shortages. Over 800,000 refugees currently reside in these temporary shelters, including many potential workers who could contribute to Thailand’s economy.

Without prompt action, Surapong warns of dire consequences, underscoring the importance of valuing every human life. He calls for a robust government policy to address the ongoing challenges faced by refugees in Thailand, reported The Thaiger.