Mental remedy for people affected by the unrest in the southernmost provinces of Thailand

บทคัดย่อ

Objective To evaluate the implementation results of the Mental Remedy for People Affected by the Unrest in the Southernmost Provinces of Thailand Project.

Materials and methods The prospective study was based on an analysis of various documents collected during 2004-2012, non-participate observation, in-depth interview and focus group discussion. The context involved policy, project manager, strategic plan and key indicator index. The inputs were allocated budget at 60% or more, guideline, home visit’s manual and standard of mental remedy services. Activities included policy on mental health, mental health service, database system and evaluation. The output was the number of mental remedy centers, health personnel trained and victims receiving mental care.

Results There was an appointed committee. Mental remedy centers were set up at all 36 hospitals. The performance indicator for regional level was developed. The allocated budget was 58%. The policy making process at the department of mental health was continuous. The number of staff capable of providing mental rehabilitation services was sufficient. However the organizational chart at the hospital does not specifically reflect structure and personnel strength supporting work on mental health and psychiatry. Database on mental health surveillance is developed. Those affected by the southern violence received mental health rehabilitation services following the objective but not covered all the target groups.

Conclusion The project was implemented in accordance with the objective and met the target on providing mental rehabilitation to the people at risk of having mental health illnesses. It is recommended that regular budgets should be allocated.