New scheme seeks to lower drug costs

The government project helps patients reduce their medical expenses and reduce overcrowding at hospitals

- PHUSADEE ARUNMAS

Thailand is now defined as an "aged" society, with increased demand for medical services resulting in overcrowding in public hospitals.

In response, many patients are turning to private hospitals, and the government is offering an initiative called "Happy Body, Happy Wallet" to help reduce their medical expenses.

WHY DID THE GOVERNMENT ROLL OUT THIS SCHEME?

The scheme is a collaboration between the Commerce Ministry, the Private Hospital Association (PHA), the Department of Health Service Support and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The project was launched last month, meant to improve public health services and reduce people's cost of living.

The scheme provides consumers greater choice by allowing them to compare prices for medicines and medical supplies at private hospitals with those offered elsewhere.

The initiative is expected to benefit both Thai and expat outpatients at private hospitals. The Department of Internal Trade (DIT) said roughly 12 million patients a year rely on such services at private hospitals.

The project is forecast to reduce living costs by 33.5 billion baht a year.