Factors Affecting the Development of Successful Thai Traditional Medicine Service Model at State Health-care Facilities

Abstract

While Thai traditional medicine (TTM) is immensely supported by the government and the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) as per the policy and strategy stated in the Fourth through the Tenth National Economic and Social Development Plans, the TTM service utilization has not changed dramatically in general hospitals, except in state health-care facilities providing TTM services according to the MoPH standards. Consequently, this research aimed to determine characteristics and factors affecting TTM service delivery in four purposively selected MoPH hospitals providing TTM services according to such standards, namely Chaophraya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital in Prachin Buri province, Songkhla Hospital in Songkhla province, Kutchum Hospital in Yasothon province and Bangkrathum Hospital in Phitsanulok province, by conducting indepth interviews with hospital administrators and observing the TTM service delivery processes in each hospital. The results revealed that the important factors for the successful TTM service delivery systems were the enthusiasm and determination of hospital directors, TTM practitioners and support staff in providing such services; and the TTM services involved the administrators’
support with the clear policy, vision, mission, and strategic plan on such matter, as well as publicity activities through various media, the preparation of services places, personnel and materials, the planning of service delivery processes, the systematic surveillance of TTM risks, monitoring and evaluation, and monthly reports on service indicators to the directors.