The Thai government has unveiled plans to enhance care for dependent individuals, focusing on expanding access to home and community-based services, particularly for those with dementia and terminal illnesses.
Deputy Government Spokesperson Karom Phonphonklang announced that annually, around 320,000 individuals with dependency conditions receive government care. However, additional groups within the community, including those with moderate dementia and terminal illnesses, also require attention. To address this, the National Health Security Board (NHSO) has approved expanding its target groups to encompass these individuals.
This expansion is projected to increase the number of dependent persons receiving care to approximately 600,000. To support this growth, the NHSO has approved raising the budget for long-term healthcare services for dependent persons from 6,000 baht per person per year to 10,442 baht per person per year. This increase of 4,442 baht per person will enhance support for local administrative organizations, improve service delivery, and provide necessary medical equipment. Additionally, the budget boost aims to incentivize capable service providers, such as community hospices, to participate in the care of dependent persons.
Karom emphasized the government’s dedication to improving the quality of life for dependent individuals and supporting Thailand’s aging society through strategic budget allocations to the NHSO. The overarching goal is to ensure that dependent persons can access essential healthcare services under the universal healthcare scheme.
Several officials and community representatives attended the announcement, highlighting the broad support and collaborative efforts behind this significant initiative.
