Details on Gold Card coverage for treating coronary artery disease (STEMI): What does the protection include? Check treatment rights from diagnosis, angiography, cardiac catheterization to surgery, along with patient referral procedures. Latest updates here.
Coronary artery disease is a silent threat that claims many Thai lives each year, especially "acute myocardial infarction," a critical condition where time is vital to reopen blocked arteries. Did you know? Those holding the "Gold Card" (National Health Security rights) can receive seamless, comprehensive treatment. Today, Thairath Online will explore which stages of coronary artery disease treatment are covered by the Gold Card, providing essential information to care for yourself and your family.
Data shows that acute myocardial infarction of the STEMI type occurs due to severe coronary artery blockage, preventing blood flow to the heart muscle. This condition requires prompt diagnosis and artery reopening to save the patient's life.
According to medical guidelines, coronary artery disease patients using the Gold Card receive systematic care as follows:
The key treatment goal is "to reopen the artery as quickly as possible." The system connects patient referrals, starting with the local or nearest hospital diagnosing and evaluating treatment options.
In cases where a patient is diagnosed with STEMI, | the medical treatment approach is as follows: |
If timely artery reopening is possible, | the patient will be transferred to a PCI unit (catheter-based procedure) to quickly open the artery. |
If transfer is not timely or contraindicated, | the doctor may administer clot-dissolving drugs first, then arrange transfer for ongoing treatment. |
Doctors will decide the most suitable treatment based on patient condition and the time to access PCI units.
Statistics indicate that 86.20% of STEMI patients aged 15 and older with Gold Card coverage received clot-dissolving drugs and/or underwent PCI. This demonstrates the system's capability to provide comprehensive care nationwide. The Gold Card is a welfare benefit that significantly reduces healthcare costs and serves as a reliable health support for Thai people.
Reference: National Health Security Office (NHSO)