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Abstract
Readiness of Thai Traditional Medicine Services at Tambon Health Promoting Hospi-
tals in Lop Buri Province, Thailand.
, §
†
†
Sukanya Khumpo* , Chanin Chareonkul , Peerapon Rattana , Krisana Sirivibulyakiti ‡
*The Degree of Master of Public Health, Faculty of Public Health Thammasat University,
Pathum Thani 12120, Thailand.
†
Faculty of Public Health, Thammasat University Pathum Thani 12120, Thailand.
‡
Lop Buri Provincial Health Office 15000, Thailand.
§
Corresponding author: mooair_gangza@hotmail.com
Rationale and Objective: The operation of the Thai traditional medicine (TTM) services at
Tambon Health Promoting Hospitals in Thailand’s Lop Buri province has not been in line with
the policy on TTM services. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the readiness of TTM
services at Tambon Health Promoting Hospitals in the province, while studying factors related to
TTM services and addressing the problems.
Methodology: This descriptive research used the survey method to collect the quantitative
data from 132 health officials responsible for TTM services, one at each of all Tambon Health
Promoting Hospitals in the province, using a questionnaire. Data analyses included descriptive
and inferential statistics. And qualitative data were collected by in-depth interview with 4 offi-
cials in charge of policy implementation, monitoring and evaluation of TTM services. A focus
group discussion was held with 11 health-care providers, one from each district. Qualitative data
were analyzed by content analysis.
Results: The Thai traditional medicine services of Tambon Health Promoting Hospitals
in Lop Buri had a moderate level in self-dependence, variety of services, and increasing the op-
portunity to access services. There were significant positive relationships among readiness of
service and TTM staff, leadership, policies, participation, motivations, places, instruments, and
surroundings (p-value < 0.05). Existing problems were linked to inadequate budget and TTM
staff.
Discussion and Conclusions: The factors related to the readiness of TTM services at Tambon
Health Promoting Hospital are comprised of budget support, having Thai traditional medicine
staff and network cooperation.
Keywords: readiness of Thai traditional medicine services, Tambon Health Promoting Hospital