Healthcare system faces 'debt-inspired crisis'Senator Veerapun Suvannamai has warned of a looming financial crisis in the healthcare system due to unpaid debts from the National Health Security Office (NHSO) under the universal healthcare scheme. Under the NHSO's point-based reimbursement system, hospitals often receive less than the actual cost of care, forcing them to rely on their own maintenance funds to cover expenses. With central funds still pending, hospitals will face even greater financial strain this year," Dr Veerapun said. He warned that hospitals with high patient volumes are the most at risk, particularly in rural provinces where maintenance funds are limited. Dr Veerapun described the situation as a "time bomb", stressing that if healthcare workers stop providing services due to lack of pay, patients will suffer directly.

Source: Bangkok Post February 24, 2026 21:58 UTC