Opinions on the 30 baht universal healthcare policy of the people of Tha Mai District, Chanthaburi Province

Abstract

This study is a survey research aimed at examining public opinions on the "30 Baht Healthcare for All" policy and comparing these opinions among residents of Tha Mai District, Chanthaburi Province. The sample group consisted of 423 residents, selected using a multi-stage random sampling method. The data was collected from December 15, 2024, to January 2025.

                The research instruments included a personal information record form, a questionnaire on opinions toward the "30 Baht Healthcare for All" policy, and an interview form for policy recommendations. The validity of the instruments was assessed using the Content Validity Index (CVI), yielding a value of 0.85, while reliability was tested using Cronbach’s alpha, resulting in a reliability coefficient of 0.82. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, and differences in opinions based on demographic variables were examined using one-way ANOVA.

                The findings revealed that the majority of respondents held a moderate opinion of the "30 Baht Healthcare for All" policy, accounting for 60.30% of the sample, with an average score of 44.01. Respondents who had used services such as digital medical certificates, online prescription services, postal medication delivery, warm-clinic nursing services, community medical technology services, community general practice clinics, warm-clinic physical therapy, warm-clinic dental services, and community-based Thai traditional medicine reported significantly higher satisfaction with the policy compared to those who had never used these services. Furthermore, significant statistical differences were found in policy opinions among respondents of different age groups and income levels.

                The findings of this study provide valuable insights for public health officials and relevant stakeholders in enhancing communication channels for the "30 Baht Healthcare for All" policy. The study emphasizes the need to increase public awareness of the available services within their local areas and to continuously improve the implementation of the policy in healthcare facilities.