International
Trade in Health Services
In the Millennium : A Case of Thailand
Dr. Wattana S. Janjaroen
Dr. Siripen Supakankunti
Dr. Sauwakon Ratanawijitrasin
Dr. Kamalinne Pinitpuvadol
Dr. Sathirakorn Pongpanich
Ms. Ratana Samrongthong
Executive Summary
Many countries around the world have been interested in the importance of free trade marketing. Since 1994, world attention has focused on WTO's Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) which intends to implement standards on free trade marketing globally through mechanisms established in WTO. Because Thailand is a WTO member, it needs to prepare public health policies and strategies to cope with all the problems which may occur after the opening of the health market.
The objective of this study is to indicate potential problems and solutions after the free trade market agreement has been implemented; the impact on the medical and public health fields includes a negative affect on the national law system, national drug production, drug prices, availability of essential medical services to Thai population as a whole, the Thai economy and numerous other factors. In addition, this study explains the current situation of the Thai public health system which will then be used to consider policy recommendations.
To alleviate and prepare to cope with the potential negative impact resulting from such compliance, a ten Ms Strategies is being proposed consisting of revising business law, improving immigration regulation, revising policy on pharmaceutical technology and related issues.
Thai government action is very important to ensure national progressive development. National authorities should have a clear vision of free trade marketing and understand the repercussions to national health in the future if nothing is done. Lessons learned from this study will provide answers for solutions and recommendations suitable to Thailand's condition. The provision and revision of national policies should not only be in accord with international commitments but should ensure improvement in the quality of life for the Thai people as a whole.