State-run hospitals across the country will have to join the Public Health Ministry's fight against drug resistance and its promotion of rational drug use, said a senior public health official. Overuse or misuse of antibiotics is making it more difficult to treat certain diseases, resulting in longer periods of treatment and higher costs. Under the five-year plan, regional hospitals are expected to reduce the use of antibiotics by 20% and cut illnesses caused by drug resistance by 50%. This information is a prerequisite for development of health management plans, further research and innovation and formulation of a public health policy, he noted. Meanwhile, the Public Health Ministry is also urging people aged 35 and above to undergo an annual health examination.

Source: Bangkok Post November 05, 2017 21:33 UTC