NHSO Plans to Explore Incorporating Cutting-Edge Therapies into UCS

Mr. Somsak Thepsuthin, who serves both as the Minister of Public Health and as the Chairman of the National Health Security Office (NHSO) Board, has tasked the NHSO with investigating the possibility of incorporating Advanced Therapy Medical Products (ATMPs) into Thailand’s Universal Health Coverage Scheme (UCS). This scheme is widely recognized as either the ‘Gold Card’ initiative or the ‘30-Baht Program.’

At the 5th NHSO Board Meeting of 2025, which took place on May 7, Mr. Somsak stated that the collaborative effort between the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) and the private sector has achieved significant milestones. This joint venture seeks to set up a national center focused on advancing Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMPs). Additionally, they aim to develop a framework for implementing and utilizing these treatments across the country.

In the first stage, two pilot 'sandbox' sites have been selected: the Bangrak Medical Center Building located in Bangkok’s Sathorn area and Vachira Phuket Hospital within Phuket province. These government-run healthcare centers are receiving backing from private financial support and will act as key venues for promoting the application of ATMPs in Thailand.

The Ethics Committee on Research within the Department of Disease Control will supervise the sandbox projects to ensure adherence to ethical standards, thereby facilitating the ongoing progress of these initiatives.

I want the NHSO board to receive updates on the project’s advancement and officially task the NHSO with examining the creation and execution of ATMPs," stated Mr. Somsak. "Our objective is to establish a distinct route for incorporating these treatments into the UCS benefit scheme, thus enhancing health care and medical services for Thais.

Dr. Jadej Thammatacharee, the Secretary-General of the NHSO, affirmed that the organization would proceed with this task. Various subcommittees within the NHSO, particularly those tasked with outlining categories and extents of healthcare services, will evaluate whether advanced therapies such as ATMPs should be incorporated into the Universal Coverage Scheme (UCS) consistent with prevailing national health policies. Updates regarding their assessments and advancements will be provided subsequently.

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