Policy Proposals from Evaluating the 30 Baht Policy to Treat Disease Anywhere with a Single ID Card in Surat Thani Province.

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the implementation model, outcomes, challenges, and policy proposals for the “30 Baht Universal Healthcare Access with a Single ID Card” policy in Surat Thani Province. A mixed-methods descriptive research design was employed, utilizing in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and document reviews. The sample consisted of 79 people, consisting of (1) executives in the Regional Health Office 11th,  (2) executives in Surat Thani Provincial Public Health Office, (3) executives in the National Health Security Office, Region 11th, Surat Thani, (4) heads of health insurance department in regional hospitals, general hospitals, and community hospitals, (5) heads of digital health department or heads of information technology in regional hospitals, general hospitals, and community hospitals, (6) Senior district public health officers or Senior district public health assistants, (7) directors of sub-district health promoting hospitals, and 8) owners/ entrepreneurs/ persons in charge of innovation units. Quantitative data were analyzed using frequency and percentage statistics, and qualitative data were analyzed from in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and document review using content analysis.

The findings revealed that the policy enhanced the Universal Health Coverage system by improving equity, convenience, and efficiency of healthcare services. Four key areas of system development were identified: (1) health data recording, (2) identity verification, (3) healthcare service workflows, and (4) citizen connectivity platforms. The outcomes demonstrated progress in strengthening primary care units, advancing digital health systems, and expanding diverse service channels. However, several challenges were observed, including (1) personnel, (2) budget, (3) information technology, and (4) management. Policy proposals include the establishment of clear strategies for workforce capacity building in health informatics, development of technical support teams, investment in digital health infrastructure, financial support for facilities facing fiscal crises, and implementation of outcome-focused monitoring and evaluation systems. These measures are expected to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of the policy nationwide.