The Secretary-General of the Social Security Office clarified the cancer treatment rights of insured persons contributing to social security, emphasizing that coverage fully meets standards and that the medication and treatment are not inferior to those under the Gold Card scheme.
On 10 Apr 2024 GMT+7, Ms. Kanjana Phulkaew, Secretary-General of the Social Security Office (SSO), addressed social media reports highlighting differences in cancer treatment rights between the SSO Cancer Care program under the social security system and the Cancer Anywhere rights under the National Health Security system (Gold Card). She noted these could cause misunderstandings and concern among insured persons. Therefore, the Social Security Office clarified four key facts to ensure correct understanding among insured persons: 1. The benefits under the SSO Cancer Care program for medication and treatment meet standards and are not inferior to those of the National Health Security Office (NHSO), and in some cases cover more. Chemotherapy treatment includes medicines both on and off the national essential medicines list, including high-cost drugs. Radiation therapy covers expenses for up to 48 items, providing patients with more treatment options suited to their individual needs.
2. The program offers a wide range of participating healthcare facilities. Although it is not named 'Anywhere,' in practice, SSO Cancer Care includes many facilities covering both public and private sectors, giving insured persons diverse options for treatment if they do not wish to use hospitals assigned by their rights. The key goal is to distribute patients to capable facilities beyond just medical school hospitals to reduce overcrowding, shorten waiting times, and enable timely treatment, which is crucial for controlling and mitigating disease severity.
3. Regarding access to treatment at medical school hospitals, the Social Security Office clarified that regardless of which system the patient uses—social security or the Gold Card—those wishing to be treated at medical school hospitals must obtain a referral letter from their original healthcare facility. Direct access is not permitted because medical school hospitals need to prioritize complex cases and manage a high volume of patients awaiting services.
4. To facilitate insured persons wishing to receive cancer treatment at facilities other than those assigned, the Social Security Office has implemented a registration and identity verification system. This protects insured persons' rights, prevents misuse, and helps ensure efficient care without concerns about financial burden.
The Secretary-General added that the Social Security Office remains committed to maintaining and improving medical service systems so insured persons receive quality, standard, and appropriate care. The office also welcomes all suggestions to further enhance benefits and service delivery.