BANGKOK, Thailand – The government is expanding healthcare access for insured workers through telemedicine, allowing patients with chronic conditions to receive treatment remotely while reducing travel costs. The policy is being carried out through coordination between the Ministry of Labour, the Ministry of Public Health, and related agencies.
The Medical Committee and the Social Security Board have approved coverage for telemedicine services for outpatient chronic disease patients under the social security system. The measure allows insured individuals to consult doctors and monitor their conditions without visiting healthcare facilities, addressing rising travel expenses linked to higher living costs.
Under the policy, telemedicine services are set at 65 baht per visit for a three-month period from May 1 to July 31. Participating healthcare providers must meet standards set by the Ministry of Public Health and can directly reimburse service fees from the Social Security Office, eliminating the need for patients to pay upfront.
Deputy Government Spokesperson Lalida Periswivattana said authorities are also monitoring supplies of medicines and medical materials, with the Government Pharmaceutical Organization confirming adequate reserves to support continued treatment. The expanded use of telemedicine is expected to improve access to care and ease financial pressure for insured patients requiring ongoing treatment.
