NHSO adds six medications to national health insurance scheme
The National Health Security Office (NHSO) board approved the addition of six medications to the national health insurance system yesterday, February 3. This initiative aims to ensure patients have comprehensive access to essential treatments, particularly for tuberculosis, nephritis, and lymphoma.
The decision follows approval from various subcommittees and aligns with recommendations from the World Health Organisation on tuberculosis treatment.
The first two medications approved are for treating tuberculosis. Pretomanid is recognised for its effectiveness in treating multidrug-resistant tuberculosis, offering a shorter treatment period of six months compared to the previous 9 to 20 months.
This change is expected to benefit approximately 980 patients annually and reduce costs by 51.53 to 59.64 million baht. The combination of Isoniazid and rifapentine is meant for latent tuberculosis or those at high risk, improving treatment efficacy with fewer medications and a shorter duration.
Around 5,859 patients are estimated to benefit each year, saving 1,117.16 to 1,314.10 baht per person.
The Department of Disease Control (DDC) will secure funding for these medications in the 2025 fiscal year, with the NHSO to continue funding thereafter. Secretary General of NHSO, Doctor Jadej Thammatacharee, elaborated on four additional medications, which will expand their usage and improve treatment effectiveness.
Sofosbuvir and Velpatasvir, alongside Ribavirin, are approved for all chronic hepatitis C strains in patients weighing over 30 kilogrammes.
These medications are effective for patients unresponsive to initial treatments, with an estimated 660 additional patients benefiting annually.
Ceftazidime and avibactam, previously limited to treating specific resistant infections, now have clearer usage guidelines for patients unable to use colistin due to resistance or severe side effects, benefitting around 30 patients per year.
Rituximab, approved for various conditions, including ANCA-associated vasculitis and idiopathic nephrotic syndrome, is expected to help 80 patients by reducing recurrence over nine to 19 months.
It also assists in treating glomerulonephritis, lupus, and dermatomyositis, with potential cost savings if patients switch from IVIg therapy. In lymphoma, Rituximab is more effective and less costly than chemotherapy alone, with an estimated 973 patients benefiting.
The NHSO board has tasked a subcommittee with drafting a procurement plan for these medications, allocating a budget of up to 43.42 million baht for the 2025 fiscal year. The funds will come from the remaining budget of the special procurement plan, reported KhaoSod.
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