Survey the first year students’ perception towards Health Security System in Thailand in the aspects of rights and service accessibility: Sirindhorn College of Public Health, Khon Kaen Province

Abstract

           This study was aimed to survey the first year students’ perception and opinions towards Health Security System in Thailand. The survey was conducted among 171 first year students studying at Sirindhorn College of Public Health, Khon Kaen. The period of data collection was between 17 and 20 January 2014. A set of questionnaire was adapted from the regular questionnaire used by the Health Security System office to survey the population’s opinions. The data were analyzed and reported in a form of descriptive statistics. The results demonstrate very few students know what the Health Security System (Health Security Gold Card rights) could cover. Only 55.56% of students know the rights of using the Health Security Gold Card, 17.54% don’t realize that they can change the hospital only four times a year, 36.84% know what the National Health Security Local Fund is, and 14.04% know they can seek for assistance from any independent organizations. National Health Security Office, Region 7 and Sirindhorn College of Public Health should work collaboratively to provide more information to students by various means. More information should be publicly provided to students who need more understanding on Health Security. Organizing activities through Students’affair offices, clubs, or a forum to share experience and discussion for those who are interested in promoting Health Security can be very beneficial. Public Health students and staff should be well prepared to become knowledgeable in health system and be able to handle changes may occur. Public Health networking can be another mean to lead to cooperation and development of various types of research between the educational institutions and Health Security Organizations. This type of networking can be a good ground for students to have a real touch and direct experience in community’s health. The future of Health Security achievement may rely on more studies and more focus on networking and good cooperation.