The government is upgrading the quality of life for health personnel by restructuring the wages of Ministry of Public Health employees (MOPH staff) and temporary workers to be higher than the minimum wage, effective from 1 October 2026, along with proposals to increase employment quotas by 93,000 positions.
On 8 June 2026, Ms. Lalida Pertvivatana, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, revealed that the government, led by Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, prioritizes improving the quality of life and job security for public sector staff, especially health personnel who play a vital role in caring for the health of citizens nationwide.
The deputy spokesperson stated that Mr. Pattana Promphat, Minister of Public Health, has instructed to accelerate improvements in the quality of life and job security for health personnel at all levels. The Ministry of Public Health has proceeded with restructuring the wage system for Ministry employees (MOPH staff) and monthly temporary workers following approval from the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Public Health Employee Management Committee (MOPH EMC). The committee agreed on this approach along with compensation measures for those potentially affected by the wage restructuring.
Under the new structure, the minimum wage rate for both groups will start at 10,520 baht per month, or an average of approximately 457 baht per 23 working days, which is higher than the current minimum wage. This will be implemented nationwide simultaneously from 1 October 2026 to allow health service units across the country adequate time to prepare their budgets and manage personnel appropriately.
Ms. Lalida said this wage restructuring is part of Minister Pattana Promphat's policy to elevate standards of care for all health personnel, covering income, benefits, and career advancement opportunities. The goal is to motivate employees and retain quality staff within the country’s public health system continuously.
Additionally, the Ministry of Public Health's Permanent Secretary has requested approval from the Ministry of Finance to increase the employment quota for Ministry employees and monthly temporary workers by another 93,000 positions. This is to accommodate scholarship students entering the system and to offer daily temporary workers opportunities to transition into more stable employment forms. This proposal is currently under consideration by the Ministry of Finance.
“The government believes that ensuring health personnel receive appropriate income, job security, and clear career progression paths will boost morale and work efficiency. This will lead to improved quality of public health services and more comprehensive, effective care for the population,” the spokesperson added.
Furthermore, Minister Pattana Promphat has urged all affiliated agencies to continue developing the health system while consistently caring for all personnel groups. This aims to strengthen the country's health system and improve the quality of life for citizens over the long term.