Development of a Model for Reducing Road Traffic Accidents through a Strong and Sustainable Disease Control District Health System (DHS-RTI), Phlapphla Chai District, Buriram Province

Abstract

     This action research aimed to 1) investigate the situation and context of road traffic accidents, 2) develop a model for accident reduction through a Strong and Sustainable Disease Control District Health System (DHS-RTI), and 3) evaluate the effectiveness of the developed model. The purposive sample consisted of 42 members of the District Health Board (DHB) and the Road Safety Operation Center (RSOC) in Phlapphla Chai District. The study was conducted from June 2025 to January 2026 using the PAOR cycle (Planning, Action, Observation, Reflection). Research tools included questionnaires, interviews, and D-RTI evaluation criteria. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and content analysis.

     The results revealed that: 1) In the preparation phase, the district's road traffic death rate exceeded the target (13.69 per 100,000 population), with main problems being fragmented data systems and lack of community participation. 2) In the action phase, the DHS-RTI model was developed, focusing on integrating 3-base data to identify risk spots, improving physical road conditions, and establishing community-based social measures. 3) In the evaluation phase, after implementation, the number of injuries decreased by 20.98%, and the death rate dropped to 5.48 per 100,000 population. Helmet use increased from 38.1% to 78.1%. The D-RTI standard assessment score improved from 'Good' (62.5 points) to 'Excellent' (80.5 points). Network satisfaction was at the highest level (= 4.58). Key success factors were data-driven decision-making and fostering a sense of community ownership.