Experts propose separating 'AIDS' budget from the Gold Card scheme to increase treatment efficiency
The former director of the Thai Red Cross AIDS Research Centre has expressed an opinion regarding the budget system of the Gold Card fund, or the National Health Security Fund, proposing that the budget for the care of HIV and AIDS patients be separated from the standard per-capita lump-sum budget allocation.
The primary reason for this proposal is to make budget management clearer and more targeted, as the current inclusion of the budget in a single pool may prevent resources from fully reaching the intended target group. Separating the budget would allow relevant agencies to plan treatments and access to medication more effectively.
Furthermore, separating the budget would increase opportunities for patients to access medical services more thoroughly and rapidly, which is a crucial factor in controlling the epidemic and helping patients achieve a better quality of life. Experts believe that if the budget allocation model is adjusted in this manner, it will have long-term benefits for the Thai public health system.
Currently, this proposal is a topic of interest among relevant agencies, which are considering the feasibility of improving the reimbursement system to be more appropriate and sustainable, for the ultimate benefit of all citizens using Gold Card rights.