Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

In a stark warning, Prof Dr Somsak Tiamkao, director of Khon Kaen University's Srinagarind Hospital, has called for urgent reforms in Thailand's universal healthcare. He argues for public co-payments to maintain services amidst financial challenges and increasing hospital debts. Addressing the National Health Security Office (NHSO), he emphasised transparent communication regarding the "Gold Card" scheme's shortcomings.

 

Dr Somsak highlighted the unrealistic promise of "30 baht treats all diseases," urging the NHSO to clarify that only necessary treatments listed in the official catalogue are free. He called for updating laws that prohibit co-payments, suggesting that Thailand's financial limitations demand adjusted expectations. Furthermore, he criticised the abuse of referral systems, particularly campaigns like "one ID card for all hospitals," which have led to overcrowded facilities and treatment delays.

 

The neurologist urged citizens to be proactive in managing their health and avoid over-reliance on government support. He suggested cutting nonessential NHSO benefits and focusing on necessary spending, warning that the current financial approach assumes prosperity Thailand does not possess. He also demanded the NHSO to openly report hospital debts to prepare for sustainable systemic reform.

 

In response to these issues, the Public Health Ministry's permanent secretary, Dr Somrerk Jungsaman, announced an allocation of four billion Thai baht from the central budget to support hospitals struggling under the Gold Card scheme. These funds aim to provide temporary relief while a thorough assessment and potential reforms are under consideration.

 

Key Takeaways:

 

• Prof Dr Somsak calls for public co-payments in healthcare funding.
• NHSO urged to communicate transparently and revise misleading slogans.
• Four billion baht allocated for hospitals amidst reform considerations.

 

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-10-14

 

 

He won't be using a gold card.

Prof Dr Somsak Tiamkao should pay more Thai taxes to help support the program for the Thai poor.  Honestly, which of the top-tier medical programs does Prof Dr Somsak Tiamkao have?  Obviously he's not on the Gold Card system.