Anticipated Growth in Healthcare Spending: The Role of Thailand’s Comprehensive Health Awareness Policy

Case Background

This case study focuses on Thailand’s national health awareness policy, initiated in response to rising public health concerns related to non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic. It highlights the government’s integrated response from 2020 to 2024, including media campaigns, digital platforms, and localized interventions.

This case study presents an in-depth overview of Thailand’s national health awareness policy and its relationship to healthcare spending. The synthesis draws from multiple datasets and existing evidence to underscore Thailand’s increasing focus on health awareness, showcasing the nation’s proactive strategies to enhance public health outcomes through education, prevention, and robust policy frameworks.

Over the years, Thailand has demonstrated remarkable progress in fostering health awareness among its citizens, employing a diverse and comprehensive approach that integrates public health campaigns, community involvement, and the incorporation of health education into school curricula. These initiatives reflect the government’s dedication to equipping the population with the knowledge and tools necessary to adopt healthier lifestyles and prevent the onset of diseases.

A key aspect of Thailand’s strategy involves the use of mass media campaigns to spread awareness about critical health issues. Topics addressed include communicable diseases such as dengue fever and COVID-19, as well as non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular illnesses. These campaigns emphasize the importance of healthy living, regular medical check-ups, and early detection of diseases to mitigate health risks and improve quality of life. By utilizing television, radio, social media, and digital platforms, the government ensures that health messages reach a broad audience, bridging gaps in health literacy across different demographics and regions.

For sustainable health development, it is imperative that Thai citizens and policymakers possess a strong understanding of public policy and public health service theories. These theoretical frameworks provide a critical lens through which health policies can be designed, implemented, and assessed for effectiveness. Among these frameworks, the stages heuristic model, agenda-setting theory, and multiple streams framework are particularly relevant in analyzing the processes behind health policy formulation.

The stages heuristic model, also known as the policy cycle, breaks down the policy-making process into sequential stages: agenda setting, policy formulation, decision-making, implementation, and evaluation. This structured approach highlights the roles of different stakeholders and the specific activities involved at each phase, offering a roadmap for developing and refining health policies. Agenda-setting theory, closely aligned with Kingdon’s multiple streams framework, emphasizes the dynamic interplay of three streams: problem identification, policy proposals, and political conditions. According to this framework, significant policy changes occur when these streams converge, creating a “policy window” – an opportune moment to introduce or revise policies. By understanding these dynamics, policymakers can strategically address pressing health issues and capitalize on favorable political and societal conditions to drive meaningful change.

Through the integration of these public policy theories, Thailand can continue to strengthen its health awareness initiatives and ensure that health policies are not only effective but also adaptable to evolving challenges. The combination of theoretical insight and practical application will enable Thailand to build a resilient public health system, foster a health-conscious society, and achieve long-term improvements in public health outcomes.

Public health services theories, such as the health belief model, social determinants of health framework, and health systems theory, focus on understanding the factors that influence health behaviors, outcomes, and service delivery. The health belief model posits that individuals’ health behaviors are influenced by their perceptions of susceptibility, severity, benefits, and barriers, as well as cues to action and self-efficacy. This model is instrumental in designing interventions that address behavioral factors contributing to public health issues. The social determinants of health framework highlights the impact of socio-economic factors, such as education, income, and social support, on health outcomes. This theory underscores the need for policies that address underlying social inequities to improve public health. Health systems theory examines the complex interactions within health systems, including the roles of governance, financing, workforce, information, medical products, and service delivery. This theory provides a holistic view of how health systems operate and the factors that influence their performance and resilience.

Together, these theories offer a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between public policy and public health services. They guide researchers and policymakers in identifying key leverage points for interventions, designing effective policies, and evaluating their impact on health outcomes. By integrating insights from these theories, policymakers can develop more effective, equitable, and sustainable health policies that address both immediate health needs and long-term determinants of health (Buse, Mays, & Walt, 2012; Marmot & Wilkinson, 2005).

Health policy in Thailand

Health policy in Thailand is characterized by its commitment to providing universal health coverage (UHC) to its population. The country has made significant strides in healthcare reform, particularly with the implementation of the Universal Coverage Scheme (UCS) in 2002, which aimed to provide equitable access to health services for all citizens. This policy shift resulted in substantial improvements in health outcomes, including increased life expectancy and reduced child mortality rates. The Thai government allocates a considerable portion of its budget to healthcare services, with expenditures focused on both public health initiatives and infrastructure development. For instance, the UCS, which covers approximately 75% of the population, is funded through general tax revenue, reflecting the government’s prioritization of health in its fiscal policies. Additionally, the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) spearheads numerous health projects aimed at addressing specific health issues, such as non-communicable diseases, maternal and child health, and infectious diseases. The MOPH also collaborates with international organizations to enhance health service delivery and capacity building. Despite these advancements, challenges remain, including the need for sustainable financing mechanisms, addressing health disparities among different regions, and managing the growing burden of chronic diseases. Overall, Thailand’s health policy framework is a testament to its commitment to ensuring accessible and quality healthcare for all its citizens, supported by substantial government investment and innovative health projects (Tangcharoensathien et al., 2018b; World Health Organization, 2015).

Health literacy policy in Thailand

Health literacy policy in Thailand is an essential component of the broader public health strategy, recognizing the critical role that informed and empowered individuals play in achieving optimal health outcomes. The Thai government has implemented various initiatives to enhance health literacy, aiming to improve the population’s ability to access, understand, and utilize health information effectively. This includes educational campaigns, community-based health promotion programs, and integrating health literacy into the national curriculum. The Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) collaborates with educational institutions, non-governmental organizations, and international partners to develop resources and training programs that address health literacy needs. Despite these efforts, Thailand faces significant challenges in its healthcare system. Issues such as disparities in healthcare access between urban and rural areas, an aging population, and the increasing prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) strain the healthcare infrastructure. Additionally, while the Universal Coverage Scheme (UCS) has expanded access to healthcare services, it has also brought about financial sustainability concerns and resource allocation challenges. Rural health facilities often lack the necessary equipment and trained personnel, exacerbating health inequities. Moreover, the rise of NCDs such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases requires a shift towards more preventive and health-promoting strategies, which hinges on effective health literacy initiatives. Overall, while Thailand’s health literacy policies are robust, continuous efforts are needed to address the systemic issues within the healthcare system to ensure equitable and effective health service delivery for all citizens (Ek Sereewatthanawut et al., 2020; Phulkerd et al., 2017).

The issues of government health projects in Thailand

Government health projects in Thailand, despite their ambitious scope and positive intentions, face several significant challenges that hinder their effectiveness. One major problem is the allocation and management of budgets for these projects. While the government has increased its health expenditure over the years, there are persistent issues related to the distribution of funds. Often, rural and remote areas receive less financial support compared to urban centers, leading to disparities in healthcare quality and access. Additionally, bureaucratic inefficiencies and corruption can result in misallocation of resources, further exacerbating these inequities. The financial sustainability of health projects is another pressing concern. The Universal Coverage Scheme (UCS), which provides healthcare for a majority of the population, is primarily funded through general tax revenue. This reliance on tax funding makes the system vulnerable to economic fluctuations and policy changes, which can impact the availability and quality of healthcare services. Moreover, the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and an aging population require substantial and sustained investment in healthcare infrastructure and services, adding strain to the budget. The government also faces challenges in ensuring that health projects are adequately staffed with trained healthcare professionals, as workforce shortages and uneven distribution of healthcare workers are common. These issues highlight the need for comprehensive reforms in health budget planning and management to ensure that health projects can achieve their intended outcomes effectively and equitably (Tangcharoensathien et al., 2018a; Patcharanarumol et al., 2013).

How to understand the future of healthcare in Thailand?

Forecasting healthcare yearly spending and GDP in Thailand from 2024 to 2030 involves analyzing historical trends, economic projections, and anticipated changes in healthcare needs. This period will likely see continued economic recovery and growth, following the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, alongside increasing investments in healthcare to address the aging population and rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

Discussion

This forecast assumes steady economic growth with moderate increases in healthcare spending relative to GDP. The gradual increase in healthcare spending reflects Thailand’s ongoing commitment to improving healthcare access and quality, addressing the health needs of an aging population, and managing the increasing burden of NCDs. To achieve these goals, Thailand will need to continue investing in healthcare infrastructure, particularly in rural and underserved areas, to reduce disparities in healthcare access and quality. Additionally, the adoption of digital health technologies, such as telemedicine and electronic health records, will be crucial in enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare delivery. Thailand’s experience with the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of a resilient healthcare system capable of responding to public health emergencies. Future healthcare spending will likely include allocations for strengthening public health infrastructure, improving disease surveillance and response systems, and ensuring adequate healthcare workforce capacity. Forecasting healthcare spending and GDP for Thailand from 2024 to 2030 underscores the interplay between economic growth and healthcare investment. As Thailand continues to develop economically, sustained and strategic investments in healthcare will be essential to address emerging health challenges and improve overall health outcomes. The projections presented in this analysis provide a framework for understanding potential future trends and the necessary steps to ensure a resilient and equitable healthcare system.

Conclusions

Thai government programs of prevention COVID19 in 2024

In 2024, the COVID-19 situation continues to present significant challenges globally, with varying degrees of impact across different regions. Despite the widespread availability of vaccines, new variants of the virus have emerged, leading to periodic surges in cases. These variants often exhibit mutations that can reduce the effectiveness of existing vaccines, complicating efforts to achieve herd immunity. In many countries, including Thailand, the government has had to continually adapt its strategies to manage the pandemic. Thailand’s COVID-19 prevention programs have focused on several key areas: vaccination campaigns, public health education, and healthcare infrastructure enhancement. The government has prioritized booster vaccination drives to enhance immunity against new variants, alongside initial vaccine rollouts for any remaining unvaccinated populations. Public health campaigns emphasize the importance of mask-wearing, social distancing, and hygiene practices, leveraging both traditional media and digital platforms to reach diverse demographics. Moreover, the government has invested in improving healthcare infrastructure, including expanding hospital capacities, enhancing testing and tracing capabilities, and ensuring the availability of critical medical supplies such as ventilators and personal protective equipment (PPE).

Figure 1. Forecasting graphs of GDP and healthcare spending.

Figure 2. Comparative data of percentage of GDP growth rate and healthcare spending.

Table 1. Yearly forecasting dataset of GDP, GDP growth rate, and healthcare spending.

Year	GDP (USD Billion)	GDP growth rate (%)	Healthcare spending (% of GDP)	Healthcare spending (USD Billion)
2024	550	3.5	3.8	20.9
2025	570	3.6	3.9	22.2
2026	591	3.7	4.0	23.6
2027	613	3.8	4.1	25.1
2028	636	3.9	4.2	26.7
2029	660	4.0	4.3	28.4
2030	685	4.0	4.5	30.8

Budgeting for COVID-19 prevention has been substantial. In Thailand, the government allocated significant funds for pandemic response in the 2024 fiscal year, which includes procurement of vaccines, funding for public health campaigns, and support for the healthcare system. According to recent reports, the Thai government dedicated approximately 10% of its total budget to health services, with a significant portion specifically earmarked for COVID-19 prevention and management. However, challenges persist in ensuring efficient use of these funds. Issues such as logistical delays in vaccine distribution, disparities in healthcare access between urban and rural areas, and managing the economic impacts of the pandemic on the broader population complicate the response efforts. Additionally, sustaining long-term public compliance with preventive measures remains difficult, particularly as pandemic fatigue sets in. Overall, while Thailand has made considerable strides in managing COVID-19, continuous adaptation and effective use of allocated budgets are crucial to overcoming the ongoing challenges presented by the pandemic (Kantamaturapoj et al., 2023; World Bank, 2023b).

In 2024, COVID-19 prevention policies in Thailand’s provinces continue to play a critical role in managing the pandemic, particularly given the country’s decentralized healthcare system. Provincial governments have been empowered to tailor their response strategies based on local epidemiological data and healthcare capacities. This localized approach has involved a combination of stringent public health measures, robust vaccination campaigns, and targeted public awareness programs. Provincial policies often include mandatory mask-wearing, social distancing protocols, restrictions on large gatherings, and the enforcement of quarantine measures for individuals exposed to the virus. Moreover, provinces with higher infection rates have implemented temporary lockdowns and curfews to curb the spread of the virus. The vaccination rollout has been a priority, with provincial health departments working to ensure equitable access to vaccines, including booster shots, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Mobile vaccination units and community health workers have been instrumental in reaching remote populations.

The budgeting for COVID-19 prevention at the provincial level has been substantial, reflecting the need for sustained investment in health infrastructure and public health initiatives. In 2024, the Thai government has allocated significant funds to support provincial COVID-19 response efforts. According to recent data, provincial health departments received a notable share of the national health budget, specifically designated for pandemic-related expenditures. This includes funding for the procurement of vaccines, expansion of testing and contact tracing capabilities, and the purchase of essential medical supplies such as personal protective equipment (PPE) and ventilators. Additionally, resources have been allocated to strengthen healthcare facilities, enhance laboratory capacities, and support the workforce through training and incentives. However, managing these budgets effectively remains a challenge. Disparities in resource allocation between urban and rural areas persist, with some provinces struggling with logistical issues and limited healthcare infrastructure. Efficient coordination between national and provincial authorities is essential to address these disparities and ensure that all regions have the necessary resources to combat the pandemic effectively. Overall, while significant progress has been made, continuous oversight and strategic planning are crucial to optimizing the impact of the COVID-19 prevention policies and budgets in Thailand’s provinces (World Health Organization, 2024; Ministry of Public Health, Thailand, 2024). For vaccine services to prevent COVID19 in 2024, the Thai government’s vaccine services to prevent COVID-19 continue to be a cornerstone of the nation’s public health strategy, focusing on both primary vaccinations and booster doses to combat emerging variants. The government has launched comprehensive vaccination campaigns aimed at achieving high coverage rates across all demographics, including hard-to-reach populations in rural and remote areas. To facilitate this, the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) has set up numerous vaccination centers nationwide, including mobile units and pop-up clinics, ensuring that vaccines are accessible to everyone, regardless of their location. These efforts are supported by robust public education campaigns designed to address vaccine hesitancy and misinformation, leveraging social media, traditional media, and community outreach programs to disseminate accurate information about the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines. In addition to the national vaccination rollout, there has been a strong emphasis on international collaboration to secure a steady supply of vaccines. The Thai government has engaged in agreements with multiple vaccine manufacturers and participated in global initiatives like COVAX to diversify its vaccine portfolio and ensure timely availability of doses.

Finally, the financial commitment to these vaccine services has been substantial. In the 2024 fiscal year, the government allocated a significant portion of its health budget specifically for COVID-19 vaccination programs. This includes the cost of procuring vaccines, logistics for distribution, training healthcare personnel, and upgrading cold chain infrastructure to maintain vaccine efficacy. Despite these investments, challenges persist, such as ensuring the timely delivery of vaccines amidst global supply chain disruptions and addressing disparities in vaccination rates between urban and rural regions. Additionally, the administration of booster doses requires continuous monitoring and data collection to adapt to the evolving nature of the virus. The Thai government has also invested in developing local vaccine production capabilities to reduce dependency on international supplies and enhance long-term vaccine security. Overall, while the government’s vaccine services have made significant progress in controlling the spread of COVID-19, ongoing efforts are necessary to maintain high vaccination rates, manage new variants, and address logistical and equity challenges (Kantamaturapoj et al., 2023; Ministry of Public Health, Thailand, 2024).

Ethical considerations

This study does not involve human participants, personal data, or animal subjects. All analyses are based on publicly available data and government policy documents. Therefore, ethical approval was not required in accordance with the F1000Research ethical policies.