Development of the Health Service System in Thai Traditional Medicine and Alternative Medicine of the Office in the Nakhon Pathom Provincial Public Health Office
Keywords:
Development of the health service system in Thai Traditional Medicine and alternative medicine, Thai Traditional Medicine and alternative medicine, Nakhon Pathom Provincial Public Health OfficeAbstract
Traditional Thai Medicine and alternative medicine are essential components of the healthcare system, emphasizing holistic care. Thailand has continuously promoted their integration into national health services, in line with the World Health Organization (WHO) policies and the 20-Year National Strategic Plan of the Ministry of Public Health (2017–2036). This descriptive research aimed to examine the current situation of Traditional Thai Medicine and alternative medicine services under the Nakhon Pathom Provincial Public Health Office, analyze strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT), and assess client perspectives on service quality. The study involved three sample groups: 19 executives at provincial, hospital, and district levels (semi-structured interviews), 15 service providers, and 1,265 service recipients across 15 health facilities (questionnaires). Findings indicated that services are diverse and available at all levels of care, with Traditional Thai Medicine practitioners as the main workforce. Service recipients were generally satisfied with provider competence and ease of access. However, constraints included shortages of personnel, budget limitations, and inadequate public awareness efforts. Data analysis highlighted opportunities to enhance efficiency and accessibility. The study recommends both policy-level and operational strategies, particularly multisectoral collaboration, to strengthen effectiveness and ensure the sustainability of Traditional Thai Medicine and alternative medicine services. Such efforts will enable the system to better meet the healthcare needs of the population in a comprehensive and responsive manner.
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