Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2001. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
Bangkok Post - May 11, 2001
Aphaluck Bhatiasevi
Although the move is aimed at reducing duplication of work by 42 department of 10 ministries, concerns have been raised over administration of the lump sum.
Nimit Thien-udom, director of Access, an Aids counselling centre, said openness and accountability were essential in the handling of the money.
The intention is good, he said, expressing hope the authorities responsible for distributing funds will not misuse them for personal benefit.
Paisal Tan-ud of the network of people with HIV/Aids said representatives of non-governmental organisations and HIV-positive people should partici pate in monitoring the use of the funds. Somsong Rukphao, director of the Communicable Diseases Control Department, who will take charge of administering the budget, said funds would go to provinces rather than ministries on the basis of their proposals.
At provincial level, agencies of the Public Health, Education, Labour and Social Welfare ministries would work out their specific roles, he said.
Dr Somsong said there had been no systematic evaluation of the overall performance of state agencies in tackling HIV/Aids problems.
Under the new system, funds would be channelled primarily to prevention among risk groups, particularly the young; treatment of people with HIV/Aids and care for Aids orphans.
"For instance, a readiness programme would have to be outlined for people with HIV/Aids so they know what they should do right from the time they learn of their infection, the treatments they should have in case they fall ill, up to the final stage," he added.
010511
BP010507
Copyright © 2001 - The Bangkok Post. Reproduction of this article (other than one copy for personal reference) must be cleared through the Bangkok Post.
AEGiS is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit, tax-exempt, educational corporation. AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted funding from Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, Elton John AIDS Foundation, the National Library of Medicine, Pacific Life Foundation and donations from users like you.
Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 2001. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.
AEGiS presents published material, reprinted with permission and neither endorses nor opposes any material. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. Always discuss treatment options with a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.
Copyright ©1980, 2001. AEGiS. All materials appearing on AEGiS are protected by copyright as a collective work or compilation under U.S. copyright and other laws and are the property of AEGiS, or the party credited as the provider of the content. .