Readiness of Local Government Organizations in Providing Transportation Services for the Elderly to Healthcare Facilities

Abstract

This research aimed to (1) study the problems and needs of transportation services to health care facilities for the elderly in Chanthaburi Province, (2) assess the readiness of local administrative organizations in providing transportation services for the elderly, and (3) study the feasibility of providing transportation services for the elderly to health care facilities. This study is mixed-method research between quantitative and qualitative research. The research instruments were questionnaires and interviews. The sample consisted of 353 elderly people and representatives from 5 local administrative organizations. Data were analyzed using statistical tools and gap analysis. The results of the study found that 1) Most of the sample group lived in their own homes and were cared for by their children and grandchildren. Problems of the elderly found were that most of them had health problems, were chronic and non-communicable diseases, and preferred to receive public health services at the district hospital. Most of the methods of traveling to health care facilities were by private car, and the most demand for transportation services to health care facilities was high. 2) The readiness of local agencies to provide transportation services to health care facilities found that agencies were moderately prepared in terms of budget, personnel, and methods of operation. Agencies lacked cooperation from related organizations. Summary of key issues that local agencies must add: budget, health information of elderly people in the area, vehicles, and personnel responsible for providing care. 3) Feasibility of providing transportation services for elderly people to health service facilities. From the GAP Analysis, it was found that local agencies must take additional actions, such as providing vehicles suitable for transporting elderly people, training staff to have knowledge in caring for elderly people, managing health data and linking data with hospitals. In addition, there are suggestions to create networks of both the government and private sectors to provide welfare services for transporting elderly people to hospitals.