Today, 80% of the people in Thailand are protected if the worst happens;
if they get sick, disabled or injured and cannot afford health care.
47 million Thais are covered by the Universal Coverage Scheme,
known as the “U-C-S”
and many of them are part of Thailand’s vast informal economy.
“Before the UCS, when I had to be hospitalized,
it was difficult to pay
and I had to beg the doctor to be released early.
Now when I’m admitted to the hospital
and the doctor tells me to rest for a week I can.
I didn’t have to pay and I recovered faster.”
In 2001,
the Royal Thai Government introduced universal health care coverage.
Today, every Thai citizen who is not covered
by other public health care schemes has access to the U-C-S,
a key component of the Thai “social protection floor.”
The scheme offers a comprehensive health care package
and emphasis on prevention.
U-C-S health care workers and doctors also travel to remote villages,
and set up a network of volunteers which advises local people
on health issues, especially how to prevent illness.
“They will inform people that if their illness is minor,
go to the health center;
but if their illness is serious, go to the hospital.
They also teach them health precautions
in preventing dengue fever and mosquitoes, and environmental health.”
The costs of the UCS amount to less than 1% of
Thailand’s annual Gross Domestic Product.
That relatively small investment has resulted in a substantial improvement
in the health status of the Thai people.
The U-C-S helps to prevent minor illnesses that can take productive workers
out of the labour force and lowers the burden of health care costs to families.
The Universal Coverage Scheme does also contribute to reducing poverty
and raising productivity across Thailand.