Department of Health Service Clarifies: Public Health Memorial Fund Separate from Village Health Volunteer Memorial Fund

On February 18, 2026, Dr. Phuwadech Surakot, Director-General of the Department of Health Service, explained that the Ministry of Public Health has continuously developed policies and welfare to support village health volunteers (VHVs). In November 2019, they established the 'National Village Health Volunteer Memorial Association' to provide welfare and financial support for VHV families in case of a member's death. Recent media reports about the dissolution of memorial associations in several northeastern provinces, including Sisaket and Nakhon Ratchasima, specifically the Public Health Club Memorial Association, caused concern among some VHV memorial fund members. Dr. Phuwadech confirmed that after coordinating with the National VHV Memorial Association, they want to assure all members that the association remains financially stable and will continue to provide services normally. Members will continue to receive death benefits according to existing regulations. For additional information, members can check the website www.ฌกส.-อสม.com or call 02 591 1000 during office hours.