Thailand expands breast cancer screening under health insurance coverage
Thailand expands breast cancer screening under health insurance coverage | Insurance Business Asia
Life & Health
Thailand expands breast cancer screening under health insurance coverage
Currently, less than 500 people have utilized the screening under their cover
Life & Health
By
Kenneth Araullo
The National Health Security Office (NHSO) of Thailand has affirmed that all Thai citizens covered by a healthcare insurance scheme are eligible to undergo breast cancer screening, provided they meet specific criteria.
NHSO deputy secretary-general Dr Attaporn Limpanyalert emphasized the importance of preventive healthcare measures against breast cancer and revealed that the 30-baht healthcare universal package, also known as the “gold card” scheme, now includes additional provisions for this purpose.
In a report from Bangkok Post, Limpanyalert also highlighted the significance of precautionary steps and preventive measures in safeguarding the nation’s health. He advocated for the expansion of breast cancer screening availability, stating that it should encompass not only subscribers to the universal healthcare scheme but also individuals covered by other healthcare insurance plans.
Eligibility criteria for the screening involve being over 18 years of age and having a personal history of cancer treatment or a family history of the disease.
Limpanyalert also underscored the critical role of early detection and timely medical intervention in saving lives and lowering the mortality rate among breast cancer patients. The NHSO will allocate funding for the breast cancer screening initiative, and if cancer is detected, patients will receive medical treatment under their respective healthcare insurance system.
At present, it was revealed that only around 420 individuals are availing themselves of the screening due to a lack of awareness about its availability. Limpanyalert said that the NHSO initially introduced breast cancer screenings in January exclusively for women subscribed to the universal healthcare scheme. The program has since been extended to other healthcare schemes, reflecting the commitment to enhance health security for women across the nation.
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