Private patients get affordable external drug choice

Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce is set to launch a nationwide initiative on 28th October to tackle rising drug costs at private hospitals by allowing patients to purchase prescribed medicines from external pharmacies.

The “Healthy Body, Comfortable Wallet” program is expected to save more than 32.4 billion baht annually in healthcare expenses. Participating hospitals must display drug prices and provide clear prescriptions. Over 300 hospitals across nine networks have joined.

The Department of Health Service Support will enforce rules, with fines for undisclosed prices and penalties for overcharging. The government expects the initiative to ease costs, improve private care access, and reduce state hospital congestion.