Healthcare revolution: Bangkok model improves patient care!

Healthcare revolution: Bangkok model improves patient care!

Today, October 24, 2025, a significant discussion about the future of healthcare is taking place in Bangkok. Representatives of the community clinics commented on the current situation and presented approaches to reform. The focus is on establishing a joint working group between the Ministry of Health, the National Health Commission (NHSO) and local service providers. This initiative could bring a breath of fresh air to healthcare and is aimed at testing the so-called "Nopparat model" in the city.

Reform approaches in the healthcare system

The Nopparat model aims to overcome challenges such as high transfer fees and accumulated losses. Instead of turning the entire system on its head, the aim is to improve cooperation between the various health services. To this end, a clear separation of primary, secondary and tertiary services is proposed, which has been adopted from other countries such as Singapore and Japan. A key aspect of the model is that Nopparat Rajathanee Hospital will serve as a central hospital for over 350,000 people in eastern Bangkok.

Financial challenges of the clinics

A big problem for many community clinics is the transfer fee of 800 baht, which is not sufficiently covered by the flat rates. This is becoming increasingly urgent as over 60 clinics are seriously considering withdrawing as they can no longer bear the financial burden. The NHSO is already planning measures that will allow clinics to withdraw with just one month's notice. The representatives of the Ministry of Health and the NHSO have shown themselves open to collaboration and are aiming to set up a formal working group.

Innovative healthcare solutions

A new approach that is being discussed is the introduction of an online database system for patient referrals. This could make physical transfer slips a thing of the past. A new budget model is also being planned, which could provide for a capitation fee. Clinics and hospitals receive predetermined amounts to reduce the burden on large hospitals and strengthen patient care in primary services. If the implementation of the Nopparat model is successful, it could be expanded to all 20 hospitals in Bangkok by 2026.

The role of the nursing staff

In the same discussion, Dr. Thasana Boonthong, President of the Nursing Association, highlighted the key role of nurses in the Thai healthcare system. Nurses have a strong presence throughout communities across the country and play an essential role in easing the burden on hospitals - particularly in the area of ​​nursing and maternity services. They advocate new service models to improve access to healthcare and reduce overcrowding in hospitals.

The aim is also to set up “nursing and maternity clinics”, which are already to become part of the national health system in over 5,000 facilities across the country. The NHSO has Dr. Thasana's proposal has already been approved and working groups are being formed to further develop these clinics and establish them as a joint service unit.

A look at the healthcare system

The Thai healthcare system has a long tradition and is made up of a public sector, dominated by conventional medicine, and a private sector, which also includes traditional Thai healing methods. The Ministry of Health plays a central role in health policy and has implemented numerous plans to improve health care since 1961. In recent years, Thailand has made progress in providing access to health care to almost all citizens, with about 65% of the cost borne by the state. Developing new models and empowering nurses are part of ongoing efforts to continually improve the healthcare system.

Overall, there are signs of a positive movement in Bangkok that could both improve access to health care and reduce the burden on existing facilities. With good persuasion and clever measures, the city's healthcare system should be strengthened in order to make it future-proof for the population.

For more information, visit Thai PBS reports here, TNMC here and Wikipedia here.