The Medical Board and Social Security Board have approved supporting telemedicine service fees for insured persons with chronic illnesses to reduce travel expenses during the global crisis, effective from 1 May to 31 July 2026.
On 24 April 2026, the Social Security Office announced that the Medical Committee and Social Security Committee approved increasing medical service fees for treating insured patients with chronic diseases, including telemedicine services, to ease travel costs and enhance access to medical care.
Ms. Kanchana PhoolkaewThe Social Security Secretary revealed that the global crisis resulting from conflicts in the Middle East has directly impacted domestic oil prices and transportation costs, which have risen. This situation has also affected public health services, particularly emergency ambulance services, as well as the cost of raw materials for producing pharmaceutical packaging. However, the Government Pharmaceutical Organization has confirmed sufficient reserves of essential raw materials and medicines, such as HIV antivirals and medicines listed in the national essential drug list, to care for insured persons. This crisis has increased the financial burden on insured chronic patients who must travel to healthcare facilities, raising their travel expenses.
At the 5/2026 Medical Committee meeting on 20 April 2026, approval was given for telemedicine service fees for outpatient insured chronic patients, requiring medical facilities to have telemedicine systems meeting Ministry of Public Health standards. The fee is 65 baht per session per three-month period. The proposal was presented to the 7/2026 Social Security Committee meeting on 21 April 2026, which approved it. The measure takes effect from 1 May to 31 July 2026 to alleviate the difficulties faced by insured chronic patients, improve access to healthcare, and reduce travel costs amid the current global crisis. Medical facilities will bill the Social Security Office directly, so insured patients do not have to pay upfront.
The Social Security Secretary concluded that supporting telemedicine service fees is a significant step by the Social Security Office to enhance access to healthcare services in line with rapidly changing global circumstances. It also reduces financial and travel burdens on insured persons, especially chronic patients, allowing continuous, safe, and effective treatment. This reflects the commitment to comprehensively care for insured persons’ quality of life in all situations.