Members of the Thai Frontline Physician Confederation (TFPC) recently expressed dissatisfaction with the Public Health Ministry’s lack of specific measures to address the challenges faced by medical professionals in the country. While the Ministry confirmed issues such as excessive workloads, understaffing, and underpayment, it did not provide concrete solutions.
The TFPC attempted to communicate these concerns to Ministry executives, but they were told that these officials could not offer higher compensation or positions to physicians. The union now hopes that the new public health minister will address these issues in a way that reduces the burden on medical professionals.
Dr. Taweesin Visanuyothin, public health deputy permanent secretary, stated on Wednesday that the ministry has been working on remedies for these problems. According to Dr. Taweesin, the Ministry is focusing on four key areas: remuneration, welfare, career paths, and workload. Cooperation with other agencies is necessary to advance these initiatives.
For example, the Medical Council of Thailand will be consulted on matters pertaining to doctor shortages and doctor training. Meanwhile, the Civil Service Commission and Ministry will discuss recruitment and retirement issues, including the possibility of implementing a special employment scheme. Additionally, the National Health Security Office, which manages the universal healthcare coverage (UHC) scheme, will be involved in discussions about workloads.
Due to the expansion of medical and health services under the UHC scheme, patient numbers have risen, increasing the demands on doctors and other medical personnel. Dr. Taweesin stated that the Public Health Ministry, as the primary service provider for the UHC, cannot refuse patients’ access to care. On Tuesday, public health permanent secretary Dr. Opas Karnkawinpong acknowledged that staff shortages at some hospitals have led to overworked employees.
In conclusion, it is vital for relevant organizations to work together to identify and implement specific strategies to address the concerns of medical professionals in Thailand. Ensuring that physicians and other healthcare workers receive adequate compensation, career development opportunities, and manageable workloads will translate into better care for the nation’s patients.
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