Thailand Medical Authorities Promote Thai Traditional Medicine as First Line of Treatment
Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Jul 27, 2024 1 month, 1 week, 4 days, 20 hours, 37 minutes ago
Thailand Medical: Public Health Minister Advocates for Traditional Remedies
In a significant move towards integrating traditional healing practices into mainstream healthcare, Thailand's Minister of Public Health, Mr. Somsak Thepsuthin, has launched a policy encouraging the use of Thai traditional medicine as a first-line treatment. The initiative, unveiled at the 16th Regional Thai Traditional Medicine and Indigenous Medicine Fair in Phitsanulok, aims to promote the use of local herbs and remedies for minor ailments, potentially transforming the healthcare landscape of Thailand.
Thailand Medical Authorities Promote Thai Traditional Medicine as First Line of Treatment
Image - Courtest of Ministry of Public Health
A Vision for Health and Economic Growth
Mr. Somsak's policy, “Whenever you are sick, think of Thai medicine before going to the doctor,” is not just about health but also about economic upliftment. By urging citizens to consider traditional medicine, the policy aims to generate income, create jobs, and increase the value of Thai herbs on the global stage. The consumption of Thai herbal products currently stands at 56 billion baht, making Thailand the fourth largest market in Asia. This figure is expected to nearly double to 104 billion baht by 2027.
Boosting Herbal Medicine through Policy Support
The government has shown robust support for this initiative. The National Health Security Office (NHSO) will increase the budget allocation for herbs by 50%, from 1,000 million baht to 1,500 million baht, to reduce dependence on imported raw materials and medicines. This will also bolster Thailand's drug security. Starting in 2025, the per capita rate for NHSO rights will be raised to 31.90 baht per person from the current 20.01 baht. Additionally, 27 herbal medicines have been approved for use under the NHSO Fee Schedule, providing alternatives to modern pharmaceuticals.
Emphasizing Traditional Wisdom and Biodiversity
Thailand's rich heritage in traditional medicine is a cornerstone of this initiative. With 50,803 registered provincial folk doctors, numerous traditional medicine textbooks, and a diverse array of unique herbs across its provinces, Thailand is well-positioned to leverage its traditional knowledge. Thai massage, recognized as a world cultural heritage, and Thai food, known globally for its medicinal properties, further enhance this initiative's appeal.
The Role of the Thai Traditional Medicine Festival
The 16th Regional Thai Traditional and Indigenous Medicine Festival, held from July 26-27, 2024, at the Somdej Phra Naresuan Maharat International Exhibition and Convention Center, served as a platform to promote this policy. The event featured a special lecture by Mr. Somsak on the new policy, with participation from key figures such as Mr. Phusit Somchit, Governor of Phitsanulok Province, and Dr. Taweesin Visanuyothin, Director-General of the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine and many other
Thailand Medical
experts.
Key Activities and Collaborations
The festival was a hub of activity, showcasing the wisdom of Thai traditional medicine from the Northern region. It included exhibitions on local herbs and folk medicine, academic conferences, and knowledge exchange sessions attended by public health officials, hospital directors, and traditional medicine practitioners. Collaborations with educational institutions, government networks, private sectors, and health tourism route networks were emphasized to integrate traditional medicine into the broader healthcare and tourism sectors.
His Execllency, Thailand's Minister for Public Health addressing the launch of the new policy.
Image - Courtesy of the Ministry of Public Health
Towards a Comprehensive Health Ecosystem
Dr. Taweesin highlighted the festival's goal of integrating traditional knowledge into the official health service system. By elevating folk medicine into mainstream healthcare, the initiative seeks to develop new products and services and link health with tourism. This holistic approach aims to create a sustainable health economy, with the festival serving as a catalyst for this transformation.
The Future of Thai Traditional Medicine
The government's commitment to this initiative underscores the importance of traditional medicine in Thailand's healthcare future. By promoting Thai traditional medicine, the country aims to create a healthcare system that is not only effective and accessible but also economically beneficial. The integration of traditional remedies with modern medical practices represents a forward-thinking approach to health and well-being, honoring Thailand's rich cultural heritage while fostering innovation and growth.
Conclusion
The promotion of Thai traditional medicine as a first-line treatment is a visionary step towards a healthier and more prosperous Thailand. With strong governmental support, robust policy measures, and widespread collaboration, Thailand is poised to become a global leader in traditional medicine. As the nation embraces its rich herbal heritage, it sets a precedent for integrating traditional wisdom with modern healthcare, paving the way for a brighter, healthier future for all.
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Read Also:
https://www.thailandmedical.news/articles/herbs-and-phytochemicals
https://www.thailandmedical.news/articles/covid-19-herbs
https://www.thailandmedical.news/articles/thai-herbs-and-supplements
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