Recently, the National Health Security Office (NHSO) has confirmed discussions to introduce a package for gender-affirming surgery for the LGBTQ+ community under the Universal Coverage Scheme (UCS).
This is excellent news for the rainbow community or individuals with gender dysphoria, as well as for hospitals that accept the gold card. Why is this the case? Today, MEDcury will explain and analyze this new UCS package. Follow along to learn more!
Gender-Affirming Surgery and the Issues Involved
Gender-affirming surgery has been included in the benefits of the Universal Health Coverage Scheme (UHC), or known as "Gold Card" in Thailand since 2018. However, there has yet to be a comprehensive package covering all processes from health promotion and disease prevention to clear rehabilitation.
As a result, even though there is a reimbursement system in place, hospitals may receive insufficient payments. This is because gender-affirming surgery involves numerous related procedures such as jaw reduction, facial surgery, chest surgery, and genital surgery, leading to relatively high costs.
Moreover, hospitals have to submit claims for each procedure separately, which is considered redundant and time-consuming. However, recently, the National Health Security Office (NHSO) confirmed that the Royal Thai College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the Society of Sexual Medicine and Clinical Sexology are expediting discussions to establish a clear package, which is expected to be completed within 1-2 months.
LGBTQ+ Community Rejoice: Free Gender-affirming surgery Under A New Universal Coverage Scheme (UCS) Package
This is exciting news for the LGBTQ+ community as the year comes to a close. They are about to receive full benefits for gender-affirming surgery under the Universal Health Coverage Scheme (UHC), This includes everything from hormone therapy to surgical procedures.
However, MEDcury would like to emphasize that this gender-affirming surgery must be medically indicated to adjust the body to align with the individual's gender identity. It is not for cosmetic purposes. So, please don't misunderstand—cosmetic surgery is not covered and cannot be claimed.
🏳️🌈 Summary of Benefits for LGBTQ+ Individuals with Gender Dysphoria as Medically Indicated
✅ Can receive hormone therapy for health promotion and disease prevention.
✅ Can undergo gender reassignment surgery at no cost under the Universal Health Coverage Scheme (UHC).
✅ Can have more comprehensive coverage for gender reassignment procedures.
Hospitals Preparing for Better Change
For hospitals participating in the Universal Health Coverage Scheme (UHC), this is another change they need to prepare for. Previously, the reimbursement process required separate claims through the DRG system for each procedure, which was time-consuming and redundant.
However, the new package for the LGBTQ+ group will include everything necessary in one package, eliminating the need for separate claims and saving time and effort.
Hospitals should keep a close eye on this development to update their Hospital Information System (HIS) accordingly to align with these new benefits. This will lead to more efficient operations, more appropriate reimbursement amounts, and comprehensive services for LGBTQ+ patients.
👨🏻⚕️ Summary of Benefits for Hospitals
✅ Reduced redundant work
✅ Shorter work time
✅ More appropriate reimbursement through the DRG system
✅ Enhanced and more comprehensive patient services
Looking for a HIS System?
For any hospital looking for a new HIS that meets reimbursement requirements, we at MEDcury have a team of experts ready to support you and provide professional advice to handle the changes. You can discuss or inquire for more information about MEDHIS with our experts at
Phone : (+66) 02-853-9131 (Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM)
Email : sales@medcury.health or fill out the form by click here
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