Thailand's Economy
The 30 Baht Scheme: Universal Health Coverage
How Thailand achieved universal health coverage in 2002 with the 30 baht scheme, how it's financed, and its results for poor households.
In 2002, Thailand introduced universal health coverage.
The 30 baht scheme
- Patients paid a nominal 30 baht (under 1 US dollar) per visit; the fee was later dropped for most.
- It covered those without other insurance, the majority of Thais.
Financing
- Funded by general taxes.
- Hospitals receive capitation payments per registered person.
Results
- Out-of-pocket spending fell sharply.
- Fewer households faced catastrophic health spending.
- Infant mortality fell.
Low cost
Thailand achieved this at relatively low cost, spending around 4 to 5 percent of GDP on health.
Global model
The WHO and World Bank cite Thailand as a model for universal health coverage in middle-income countries.
Comparison with India
India’s Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY covers hospital care for poorer families; Thailand’s covers primary care too.
A farmer in northeast Thailand visits a district hospital for diabetes care, paying nothing, where before 2002 the costs might have pushed his family into debt.
Thailand achieved it as a middle-income country.
- Thailand introduced universal health coverage in 2002.
- The 30 baht scheme charged a nominal fee.
- It's funded by taxes with capitation payments.
- Out-of-pocket costs fell sharply.
No recording for this one yet - EconReader can read it aloud for you.