National Health Security Office Clarifies Healthcare Rights
Babies born to Myanmar mothers at a border hospital in Thailand will not receive free healthcare coverage like Thai nationals, according to the National Health Security Office (NHSO). Despite being issued a 13-digit identification number, these infants are classified as migrants and not Thai citizens.
Response to Rising Births Among Migrant Women
Dr. Jadej Thammatacharee, secretary-general of the NHSO, addressed media reports concerning an increase in pregnant women from Myanmar crossing the border to give birth in Thai hospitals. He clarified that they are taking advantage of healthcare benefits intended for migrants without coverage.
- Healthcare Package for Migrants: The universal healthcare coverage scheme is designed specifically for migrants, and Dr. Jadej emphasized that the ID cards issued to these babies clearly indicate their migrant status.
Statistics on Births at Border Hospitals
Comparison of Birth Rates
Recent data shows that around 160 babies were delivered to Myanmar mothers at the border hospital last month, compared to only 80 born to Thai women. This disparity highlights the growing trend of migrant women seeking medical services in Thailand.
- Accessing Central Databases: The NHSO utilizes a central database managed by the Ministry of Interior to determine the nationality of newborns, ensuring that only eligible individuals receive healthcare benefits.
Clarification on Welfare Benefits
Misunderstandings Regarding the “Tho 99 Rights Fund”
Dr. Jadej also addressed misconceptions about the “Tho 99 Rights Fund,” which was previously reported as financing welfare benefits for newborns of migrants at taxpayer expense. He clarified that this fund is specifically intended for migrant workers awaiting nationality verification and not for children born to Myanmar nationals exploiting medical services.
- Out-of-Pocket Expenses for Foreign Nationals: Dr. Jadej stated that foreign nationals not eligible for Tho 99 Right coverage must pay their medical expenses themselves.
Financial Sustainability of Border Hospitals
Addressing Claims of Financial Burden
Dr. Opas Karnkawinpong, permanent secretary for public health, dismissed claims that treating ineligible patients at border hospitals incurs significant costs for the state. He noted that some hospitals, like Mae Sot Hospital in Tak, maintain financial sustainability by attracting paying patients from Myanmar.
- Humanitarian Grounds for Treatment: In cases where hospitals operate at a loss, it is often due to providing free medical treatment on humanitarian grounds. However, Dr. Opas confirmed that premature babies born in Thailand are entitled to life-saving treatment under regulations set by the Interior Ministry.
Navigating Healthcare Rights for Migrants
The issue of healthcare rights for babies born to Myanmar mothers in Thailand underscores the complexities surrounding migrant health services. While efforts are made to provide necessary care for eligible individuals, clarity regarding eligibility and funding is essential to ensure that resources are allocated appropriately. As Thailand continues to navigate these challenges, ongoing discussions about healthcare access and rights for migrants remain crucial.
