Ministry of Public Health

Can you imagine a Thailand without public hospitals? The Ministry of Public Health, right here in Nonthaburi, has a fascinating story. Before 1888, hospitals were temporary, appearing during epidemics and vanishing afterward. King Chulalongkorn, Rama V, changed that. He built Siriraj Hospital in 1888, named after his son who died of dysentery. The Ministry of Public Health itself wasn’t established until much later, in 1942. It grew from a department founded in 1918 under King Vajiravudh. Interestingly, the Ministry celebrates its founding on November 27th, not the actual establishment date in March. The Ministry of Public Health’s headquarters are conveniently located near the Ministry of Public Health MRT station on the Purple Line. Its responsibilities are vast, overseeing everything from disease control to mental health services and traditional Thai medicine. They even manage Thailand’s Universal Health Coverage system, ensuring healthcare access for all Thai citizens. The Ministry’s budget in 2019 was a substantial 135,389 million baht, demonstrating its commitment to public health. The Ministry’s core values emphasize mastery, originality, a people-centered approach, and humility. They strive to be a key agency, mobilizing public engagement for the health and well-being of all Thai people. Their vision is a healthier populace, happier healthcare workers, and a sustainable health system. So, as you stand before the Ministry of Public Health, remember its journey from temporary hospitals to a comprehensive system. It is a testament to Thailand’s dedication to the well-being of its people.