Readiness of Thai Traditional Medicine Services at Tambon Health Promoting Hospitals in Lop Buri Province, Thailand

Abstract

Rationale and Objective: The operation of the Thai traditional medicine (TTM) services at Tambon Health Promoting Hospitals in Thailand’s Lop Buri province has not been in line with the policy on TTM services. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the readiness of TTM services at Tambon Health Promoting Hospitals in the province, while studying factors related to TTM services and addressing the problems.

Methodology: This descriptive research used the survey method to collect the quantitative data from 132 health officials responsible for TTM services, one at each of all Tambon Health Promoting Hospitals in the province, using a questionnaire. Data analyses included descriptive and inferential statistics. And qualitative data were collected by in-depth interview with 4 officials in charge of policy implementation, monitoring and evaluation of TTM services. A focus group discussion was held with 11 health-care providers, one from each district. Qualitative data were analyzed by content analysis.

Results: The Thai traditional medicine services of Tambon Health Promoting Hospitals in Lop Buri had a moderate level in self-dependence, variety of services, and increasing the opportunity to access services. There were significant positive relationships among readiness of service and TTM staff, leadership, policies, participation, motivations, places, instruments, and surroundings (p-value < 0.05). Existing problems were linked to inadequate budget and TTM staff.

Discussion and Conclusions: The factors related to the readiness of TTM services at Tambon Health Promoting Hospital are comprised of budget support, having Thai traditional medicine staff and network cooperation.

Keywords: readiness of Thai traditional medicine services; Tambon Health Promoting Hospital