Bangkok: Somsak Thepsuthin, the Minister of Public Health, has elucidated details surrounding the construction of a Thai traditional medicine center in Khiri Mas District, Sukhothai Province, emphasizing that the initiative carries no personal benefits and aims to address the shortage of doctors in state hospitals. The project seeks to accommodate medical students from private and international universities, although it may potentially impact employment opportunities for state hospital medical students. According to Thai News Agency, the explanation was delivered during an extraordinary House of Representatives meeting chaired by Mr. Pichet Chueamuangphan, the First Deputy Speaker of the House. The session was dedicated to discussing the draft bill on the annual budget for fiscal year 2026. Mr. Somsak clarified the Ministry of Public Health's budget allocation, highlighting that the center's budget of 140 million baht includes a specific allocation of 50 million baht, with the remaining 90 million baht desig nated for other pre-existing centers. Mr. Somsak further explained the strategic location of the center in Khiri Mas District, known historically as a herbal mountain since the era of King Ramkhamhaeng the Great. Addressing concerns over the digital health service system, Mr. Somsak confirmed a budget allocation of 17.55 million baht for the Thailand Health Atlas within the broader Health Data Hub project. He acknowledged the commendations received from fellow members regarding budget allocation and detailed the Ministry's 2026 budget plan of 372,662.11 million baht. This plan encompasses various initiatives, including the 30-baht universal healthcare scheme and supporting mental health and drug rehabilitation. The 30-baht healthcare scheme has faced criticism about potential insolvency, which Mr. Somsak attributes to the burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The Minister highlighted ongoing efforts such as the 1.2 billion baht Carb Counting Project aimed at reducing NCD prevalence through public edu cation and volunteer training. He also addressed the shortage of doctors by declaring special compensation areas and opening opportunities for medical students from private and overseas institutions. Mr. Somsak also dismissed any allegations of nepotism involving a relative, Mahakun Thepsuthin, owner of the Tamrap Thai restaurant chain, clarifying that Mahakun has no business dealings with the Ministry of Public Health. In response to questions from Dr. Vayo Atsawarungruang of the Prachachon Party, Mr. Somsak defended the NCD project's budget, underscoring the significant costs associated with tackling just two diseases and the need for comprehensive tools and data systems.
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