/countries/thailand/news/dr-ailan-with-thaihealth02.tmb-1200v.jpg?sfvrsn=5ea15341_1&ssl=1 "ThaiHealth’s Leadership in Empowering Communities for Better Health")
In recent developments, the Thai Health Promotion Foundation, commonly referred to as ThaiHealth, has been making strides in empowering communities for better health outcomes. Under the leadership of CEO Dr. Pongthep Wongwatcharapaiboon, ThaiHealth is actively realigning its strategies to address the evolving health challenges in Thailand. This strategic direction takes inspiration from the framework known as DOPA, which stands for Data-driven, Outcome-driven, Partner-driven, and AI-driven initiatives. This report delves into the recent collaboration between ThaiHealth and the World Health Organization (WHO) and how they aim to create a sustainable, community-oriented health system in Thailand.
Key Themes of ThaiHealth’s Leadership
DOPA Framework: A Strategic Shift
Central to ThaiHealth’s approach is the DOPA framework which emphasizes:
Data-driven: ThaiHealth strongly advocates for using local data to inform health interventions. By analyzing community-specific data, health activities can be tailored to meet the unique needs of diverse populations across Thailand.
Outcome-driven: The goal is to achieve measurable improvements in health metrics. ThaiHealth continuously evaluates the success of various initiatives, focusing on tangible health outcomes.
Partner-driven: Engaging with multisectoral partners, especially Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), is integral to driving sustainable health changes. This collaboration brings together different expertise and resources, amplifying the impact of health promotion efforts.
- AI-driven: By exploring the use of technology and artificial intelligence, ThaiHealth aims to enhance its health promotion strategies, making them more efficient and effective.
This bottom-up model is being piloted in various provinces across the country, backed by the National Health Security Office (NHSO) and driven by innovative funding mechanisms that provide direct financial benefits to local communities.
Success Stories: Helmet Banks for Child Safety
A notable success from ThaiHealth’s initiatives is the Helmet Bank program, which aims to promote child safety via helmet use. Implemented in Child Development Centers, this program educates children about the importance of wearing helmets. Children then become advocates within their families, leading to a reported 100% helmet use among those participating in the program. Currently funded in 400 centers, ThaiHealth aims to expand this initiative to over 20,000 centers nationwide, thus reinforcing safe behaviors from an earlier age.
Regional Leadership in Border Health
Recognizing the critical role of health systems at the borders, ThaiHealth is taking a lead in regional health initiatives. It is collaborating with various stakeholders to develop a Master Plan designed to improve health services for migrants and enhance the overall health system in border areas. Dr. Pongthep highlighted the necessity of multi-sectoral partnerships, encouraging further collaboration between WHO, academic institutions, NGOs, and neighboring countries to share technical expertise and resources effectively.
Promoting Physical Activity and Policy Advocacy
In anticipation of the South-east Asia Physical Activity Conference 2025 (SEAPAC2025), ThaiHealth is focused on continuing the legacy established by the Bangkok Charter 2016 and the Global Action Plan on Physical Activity 2018–2030. This conference will serve as a platform to advocate for physical activity as a cornerstone of public health. Additionally, ThaiHealth is exploring initiatives like a National Step Challenge, aimed at promoting active lifestyles amongst the population. They are seeking WHO’s technical support to ensure these efforts are backed by global best practices and evidence-based research.
A Focus on Future Collaborations
As ThaiHealth moves forward, it is keen on nurturing collaborative initiatives with WHO across various focal areas, including:
- E-cigarette regulation
- Commercial determinants of health
- Promoting healthy diets
- Enhancing border health governance
- Encouraging physical activity among communities
Dr. Ailan Li, the WHO Representative to Thailand, reaffirmed WHO’s commitment to supporting these initiatives. She emphasized the importance of evidence-based health promotion efforts, asserting that WHO stands ready to collaborate with ThaiHealth in improving health outcomes for the Thai population and leading efforts regionally.
Conclusion
ThaiHealth’s leadership in empowering communities for better health exemplifies a modern approach to health promotion that is both people-centered and data-driven. By leveraging local data, emphasizing measurable outcomes, and building strong partnerships with various stakeholders, ThaiHealth is setting a benchmark for health promotion in Thailand and the Southeast Asian region.
Through successful programs like the Helmet Bank, strategic initiatives in border health, and advocacy for physical activity, ThaiHealth demonstrates its dedication to fostering a healthier nation. The collaboration with WHO further solidifies its reputation as a leader in public health, paving the way for innovative and effective health promotion strategies that can be replicated in diverse contexts.
As societal health challenges evolve, the proactive, collaborative, and data-driven approaches adopted by ThaiHealth provide a template for other countries looking to empower their communities for improved health outcomes. The framework of DOPA not only fosters local engagement but also ensures sustainability and efficacy in health promotion efforts.
This ongoing journey of collaboration, strategic planning, and community engagement reflects a robust vision for a healthier future in Thailand, showcasing ThaiHealth as a beacon of innovation in public health leadership.
