The Welfare for Migrant Workers of Thai Government: Case Study about Health Rights of Burmese Workers in Phitsanulok Province

Abstract

This research aims to study 1) the health rights of Burmese workers 2) To study the problems and obstacles related to health rights of Burmese workers in Phitsanulok municipality, Phitsanulok Province 3) To study recommendations on the health rights of Burmese workers. This research was based on documents and from 5 government officials, 5 entrepreneurs and 10 Burmese workers, totaling 20 people by selecting a specific sample. The research instruments were interviewed, Data were Content analysis and analyzed descriptively. The research found that 1) Burmese workers legally working in Phitsanulok municipality will have the right to receive health welfare rights such as social security and health insurance from the Thai government as well as Thai workers. To receive such benefits, they must pass a health examination and obtain a health insurance card as prescribed by the Ministry of Public Health and registered according to the provincial labor system in the area. 2) Problems and obstacles related to the health rights of Burmese workers in Phitsanulok municipality include registration problems which are complicated procedures. Complicated and requires a lot of paperwork Communication problems with limited language and lack of intermediary to help translate languages and access to health services for Burmese women workers who are pregnant. 3) The suggestion is that the government should provide an online registration service for migrant workers. There should be an increase in the number of staff to be sufficient to serve foreign workers. The procedure for registering foreign workers should be reduced and an interpreter should be provided.