Bangkok: The Prime Minister has lauded village health volunteers (VHVs) as the backbone of Thailand’s public health system, equating their efforts to those of skilled rowers navigating the country towards better health standards. The Prime Minister expressed hope that these volunteers would evolve into “smart village health volunteers” by integrating technology into their healthcare services, thereby elevating the quality of public health in Thailand.
According to Thai News Agency, the Prime Minister, who is also the Minister of Interior, Anutin Charnvirakul, officiated the launch of the Village Health Volunteer Capacity Development Project. This initiative aims to bolster public health in the current era of development. The event was attended by Public Health Minister Pattana Promphat, public health officials, and VHV representatives from across the nation.
In his speech, the Prime Minister emphasized the crucial role VHVs play in the advancement of Thailand’s healthcare system. He acknowledged their dedication, expertise, and the essential support they provide as the first point of contact in public health services. He highlighted the ongoing technological advancements being incorporated into their work, positioning VHVs as “the people’s first doctors” who need to adapt to global healthcare trends.
Reflecting on his interaction with VHVs over the past four years, the Prime Minister noted their commitment and the challenges they face. He reassured that any threats to public health by unscrupulous individuals would be met with a strong response from the VHVs, whom he characterized as unwavering in their mission.
The Prime Minister also shared his personal pride in the VHV network, which numbers around one million volunteers. He credited their efforts, combined with medical expertise and technology, for Thailand’s successful navigation of the COVID-19 crisis, reinforcing the country’s reputation as a leader in global public health systems.
Furthermore, the government plans to empower VHVs to become community leaders in health and quality of life improvement. This includes initiatives focused on disease prevention, public health communication, and vocational training, aimed at enhancing both the health of Thai citizens and the professional security of VHVs.
The Prime Minister also addressed the need for societal adjustments in response to Thailand’s aging population. He advocated for a shift in perception from terms like “bedridden” to “community dependent,” emphasizing the importance of adapting social structures to support this demographic. He underscored the role of VHVs in delivering healthcare education and creating economic value through the public health system, suggesting that the government should leverage existing resources to generate new opportunities.