Thailand-US Restart Health Projects After Suspension Lifted

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Thailand and the United States have resumed collaboration on health projects after the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lifted a suspension. The suspension affected project activities and reimbursement approvals, which have now been resolved.

 

Dr. Opas Karnkawinpong, Thailand's public health permanent secretary, announced that this cooperation is key to advancing Thailand’s public health initiatives, particularly in controlling communicable diseases, developing health systems, and enhancing medical personnel skills.

 

This year, 31 non-research projects will benefit from the resumed funding arrangement, with a total budget of 279.1 million baht.

 

 

Previously, a US executive order led the CDC to halt projects funded after January 24. However, activities related to HIV and tuberculosis prevention and treatment, funded by the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), were not affected.

 

The CDC lifted the suspension on February 11 after a US District Court in Rhode Island decision on January 31.

 

Dr. Opas noted that throughout the suspension, many projects persisted with help from various domestic and international sources, minimizing disruption. The ministry also used the time to boost internal capabilities, focus on medical research, and adopt technology to reduce costs and enhance efficiency, reported Bangkok Post.

 

-- 2025-03-03