Thailand boosts financial aid for dependent individuals

The Government of Thailand is set to increase annual financial aid for dependent individuals from 6,000 baht to 10,442 baht per person while expanding the target group to cover up to 600,000 people.

Deputy government spokesperson Karom Ponpolklang announced today, July 3, that each year, approximately 320,000 dependent individuals receive care from the state. However, additional groups in the community, such as those with dementia and terminally ill patients requiring palliative care, also need support. These groups, like those with an Activities of Daily Living (ADL) score of 11 or lower, necessitate similar care.

To enhance service accessibility for dependent individuals, allowing them to receive care at home or within their communities, the National Health Security Board (NHSB) has approved an expansion of the target group. The new coverage will now include individuals with moderate dementia and terminally ill patients. This expansion is expected to increase the number of dependent individuals receiving care to approximately 600,000.

Karom further stated that the NHSB has also approved a budget increase for long-term public healthcare services for dependent individuals in various areas. The previous flat rate of 6,000 baht per person per year will now be raised to 10,442 baht per person per year, an increase of 4,442 baht per person annually.

This budget boost will provide local administrative organisations (LAOs) with more funds to better care for dependent individuals in their areas. It will enable service units to improve their services and procure necessary medical equipment for patients, reported KhaoSod.

Additionally, the budget increase will encourage capable service units, such as community-based hospices, to participate in the care of dependent individuals within the system. Karom spoke on the government’s aim regarding the project.

Ageing society

“The government aims to improve the quality of life for dependent individuals and support Thailand’s ageing society through budget allocations to the National Health Security Office (NHSO). The NHSO, in collaboration with LAOs, will ensure that dependent individuals access essential health services under the National Health Security Fund (30-baht gold card) through the Public Health Long-Term Care System for Elderly Dependent Individuals”

The expanded coverage and increased budget will allow for more comprehensive and effective care of ill patients, addressing the needs of a growing number of dependent individuals in Thailand’s ageing population.

With this new initiative, government aid aims to alleviate the burden on families and communities caring for dependent individuals by ensuring that everyone receives the care and support they need.