Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2001. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
Bangkok Post - March 18, 2001
Aphaluck Bhatiasevi, Onnucha Hutasingh and Kosol Satitthamajitr
Senator Jon Ungphakorn said the government had omitted mention of these services in discussion of the new health care package.
The scheme should also include medication for chronic illnesses like HIV/Aids. About 700,000 people were infected with HIV, of which 30% were Aids patients, he said.
Mr Jon, head of the people's movement drafting an alternative national health law, said the public should not have to pay even 30 baht. It was their constitutional right that the state provide basic medication.
It was not fair for the lower income group to pay the same amount as those who could afford to pay. Better-off people could pay through taxation, or through the social security system.
By charging 30 baht a hospital visit the government would collect only two billion baht a year, which was very little compared to the amount hospitals require.
"Additional earnings can be obtained by placing a donation box at the hospitals' outpatients department," he said.
Mr Jon said health care should be considered a basic right and not public welfare.
People should be given full benefits for medication.
The government should not waste time looking at minor issues, like whether to charge another 42 baht for kidney dialysis.
Saree Ongsomwang, manager of the Foundation for Consumers, suggested that the government put aside 1% of the health budget for a fund to compensate patients who have been hurt by malpractice.
Since reform of the nation's health system was a big issue, it was necessary to have clear decisions before implementation.
Trials should determine the most effective system, including whether a 30-baht charge was always appropriate or if it should be waived in some cases.
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