The Social Security Office confirms it provides care for chronic kidney disease patients at every stage, despite the continuous increase in insured persons diagnosed with chronic kidney disease. They have expanded renal replacement therapy rights to cover all treatment steps.
On 27 May, reporters reported that the Social Security Office (SSO) revealed data showing a continuous rise in insured persons suffering from chronic kidney disease, impacting patients' quality of life and the country's economic burden. The SSO confirmed its readiness to care for insured persons under Sections 33 and 39 who have kidney disease, ensuring access to treatment benefits at all stages free of charge, including comprehensive renal replacement therapy covering hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, and kidney transplantation.
Ms. Kanchana Poolkaew, Secretary-General of the Social Security Office, stated that insured persons with end-stage chronic kidney disease are entitled to renal replacement therapy benefits as follows: 1. Hemodialysis with artificial kidney machines reimbursed at no more than 1,500 baht per session, up to 4,500 baht per week or 18,000 baht per month, including erythropoietin injections and coverage of vascular access preparation and related medical supplies at prescribed rates, with no time limit. 2. For patients infected with HIV, hemodialysis benefits are reimbursed up to 4,000 baht per session and no more than 12,000 baht per week, also including erythropoietin injections. 3. Permanent peritoneal dialysis benefits up to 20,000 baht per month, including erythropoietin injections and catheter placement costs not exceeding 20,000 baht per patient within two years. If catheter replacement is necessary within two years, an additional reimbursement of up to 10,000 baht is available. 4. Automated peritoneal dialysis benefits up to 32,700 baht per month, including erythropoietin injections. 5. Kidney transplantation benefits cover preoperative, operative, and postoperative care, including lifelong immunosuppressant medication.
Insured persons wishing to use renal replacement therapy benefits must submit prior approval requests with supporting documents at the Social Security Office in Bangkok, provincial offices, or branches nationwide, or via electronic systems. Registered medical facilities can be verified at www.sso.go.th, or additional information can be obtained by calling the 24-hour hotline 1506 to ensure insured persons receive continuous treatment and improved quality of life.