Protesters Demand Protection of 30-Baht Universal Healthcare Card
Citizens protested at Thailand's health ministry on August 7 demanding protection of the 30-baht universal healthcare card, arguing that low-income populations depend on the affordable scheme and any restructuring could harm access to servi
On August 7, a group of citizens using Thailand's 30-baht universal health insurance card (known as the gold card) protested at the Ministry of Public Health, demanding that the current healthcare scheme remain unchanged. Led by Pattrapol Thandetphonlert, a representative of the public, the group submitted a letter to the health minister opposing any restructuring of the program that could affect citizens' access to services. The letter was received by Dr. Sakda Alaphachan and Dr. Panuwatn Pankaetu, deputy permanent secretaries of the ministry.
Pattrapol stated that the group strongly opposes any modifications to the 30-baht card system, arguing that low-income and grassroots citizens—who represent the majority of Thailand's population—should not bear the consequences of policy changes. He insisted that the current system is working well and requires no overhaul, emphasizing that the Ministry of Public Health has a fundamental duty to ensure all citizens can access healthcare at no personal cost, with the state covering all expenses as a basic right and welfare benefit.
Dr. Sakda responded that there are no plans to cancel the policy, and that current implementation follows existing legal frameworks. He noted that a key mechanism is the law on evaluating the outcomes of legislation, which requires a review every five years. Such reviews examine real-world implementation and identify any limitations or obstacles, with input sought from all sectors before any improvements or modifications are made.
