Thailand continues to balance humanitarian values ​​with practical policies to maintain a sustainable health system

BANGKOK, Thailand – The government, through the Ministry of Public Health, responded to concerns regarding cross-border migrants’ access to health services, reaffirming its commitment to providing care to all individuals within its territory. This approach adheres to legal principles and human rights, regardless of nationality, religion or legal status. To support this policy, various funds and international partnerships have been created to subsidize health costs and ensure the sustainability of the system.

Public Health Permanent Secretary Dr Montien Kanasawad presented a three-tiered framework for access to healthcare for non-Thai nationals. The first group includes people covered by the Health Insurance Fund for People with Status and Rights Problems, supported by government benefits. The second group includes legally registered migrant workers with valid work permits and eligible for medical care, maternity benefits and retirement assistance.

The third group covers migrant workers and their dependents from Laos, Myanmar and Cambodia, insured by the Health Insurance Fund for Foreigners and Migrant Workers if they are not part of the social security system.

Non-Thai nationals not covered by these schemes are required to pay for health services. For those who cannot afford treatment, providers can offer humanitarian assistance, with partial support from international organizations, to manage unpaid expenses and ensure access to essential services.

Thailand continues to balance humanitarian values ​​with practical policies to maintain a sustainable health system. International partnerships play a crucial role in offsetting healthcare costs for non-Thai populations, promoting equitable access and efficient resource management. (NNT)