Results of the development of participatory process for promoting traditional Thai medicine and alternative medicine services Nong Khai Provincial Public Health Office.

Abstract

      This Research and Development (R&D) aimed to investigate the effectiveness of developing a participatory process in promoting Thai traditional and alternative medicine services at the Nong Khai Provincial Public Health Office. The sample consisted of 105 personnel involved in Thai traditional and alternative medicine services. Data was collected using questionnaires and analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, Independent t-test, and content analysis.

      The research findings revealed that: 1) In 2024, 83 service facilities (100%) provided complete services, but six problems were identified: inconsistent HDC data, high cost of herbal medicines, insufficient dispensing of formulated medicines, and inconsistent drug formulations with the National Health Security Office (NHSO). 2) The participatory process in promoting Thai traditional and alternative medicine services at the Nong Khai Provincial Public Health Office was also studied. By using 3 main measures, 7 activities, divided roles into 3 levels of areas (sub-district-district-province), linking Dashboard Integrated Value-Based Inspection and Value Chain/Preventive 3 levels, along with supporting 6 main components (Service Delivery, Health Workforce, Information, Medical Product, Financing, Leadership & Governance) and Participation 3) Development of participatory processes to review and improve 4 measures, namely (1) drug prescribing budget, (2) employment, (3) procedure compensation, and (4) social security rights) and adjust roles at 3 levels 4) Results of development in 2025 found that there was a statistically significant difference in personnel understanding and participation at the .05 level. After implementation, scores were higher than before. 83 service facilities (100%), 398 personnel, 24 herbal medicine items (increased from 19). Indicators: Primary care population receiving services 45%, IMC community care 15%, Common Diseases drug prescription 10%, revenue per visit 80 baht. 3 success factors: policy, management support. Public relations, participatory access to services, and collaborative patient identification systems strengthen the service, ensure 100% comprehensiveness, and broadly reach the public.