Bangkok: The Ministry of Public Health has not yet submitted a request for 8 billion baht from the central budget to address the deficit in the Gold Card budget. Details and legal requirements are being reviewed.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Paradorn Prisananantakul, Minister of the Prime Minister’s Office, discussed the situation involving Mr. Pattana Promphan, Minister of Public Health. While there was previous news suggesting a request for budget supplementation, no formal request has been made to date. Mr. Paradorn emphasized the necessity of examining the issue in detail, as requested by the National Health Security Office (NHSO), before any action is taken.

Mr. Paradorn addressed concerns about the impact of the budget shortfall on hospitals and the ongoing discussions in the Cabinet. He indicated that the Ministry of Public Health should submit the necessary information for consideration. He assured that if the Prime Minister is informed, the matter will be reviewed to ensure compliance with legal protocols.

Regarding the potential impact on the Prime Minister’s announced free dialysis policy, which requires central budget funding, Mr. Paradorn clarified that the 8 billion baht request is intended to cover last year’s budget shortfall. The current year’s budget will be allocated as planned, ensuring that the free dialysis policy remains unaffected.