Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has officially expanded the 30-baht universal healthcare coverage scheme, allowing Bangkok residents to receive healthcare services at all registered clinics, pharmacies, or healthcare units in addition to hospitals.
Ms Paetongtarn, speaking at the launch ceremony for the scheme's expansion, said that it is time to elevate the 30-baht healthcare scheme -- originally introduced by her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, during his tenure as prime minister -- to the next level. The scheme is transitioning from "30-baht treatment for all diseases" to "30-baht treatment at all locations".
The updated version of the scheme is now available in Bangkok after its initial launch in four pilot provinces on Jan 7.
It currently covers 46 provinces, including the capital.
Ms Paetongtarn announced that cardholders in need of minor medical care can now seek assistance at local healthcare units near their homes, such as pharmacies, primary clinics, dental clinics, mobile medical units, and telemedicine kiosks, free of charge.
At these primary healthcare units, patients will receive care comparable to that of large hospitals but without the long waiting times, she said.
She added that this expansion will help reduce travel costs for patients and significantly lighten the workload for medical staff at hospitals.
"Big hospitals are better suited for those suffering from serious conditions such as cancer and heart disease," she noted.
The prime minister highlighted the success of the scheme over the past eight months, with a quarter of patients opting to use primary healthcare units instead of hospitals.
She reported that 98% of patients are satisfied with the scheme and confirmed that it will be extended nationwide by the end of this year.
In a separate development, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has signed a 30-year lease with Wat Pak Nam in Bangkok's Phasi Charoen district to rent the temple's 12-rai plot of land.
This site will host Phra Mongkoltepmunee Hospital, a joint project between the BMA and the Office of National Buddhism.
The hospital is expected to serve approximately 945,000 residents in the Phasi Charoen area and nearby districts, including Bang Khae, Bang Bon, Rat Burana, Chom Thong, Thon Buri, Bangkok Yai, and Taling Chan, it was reported.
