Thailand introduced a model new initiative to supply free condoms to people holding universal healthcare cards as a half of the National Health Security System, also identified as the 30-baht health scheme. The initiative goals to forestall undesirable pregnancies and the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among individuals of reproductive ages, Pattaya Mail reported yesterday.
Deputy Government Spokesperson Ratchada Thanadirek highlighted the government’s concern for public healthcare, significantly about sexual health points similar to STIs and unwanted pregnancies. As part of these efforts, universal healthcare cardholders might be eligible to obtain ten condoms per week, as much as a maximum of fifty two weeks per individual per yr.
The National Health Security Office can be considering extending this privilege to individuals underneath the social safety system and the government’s official welfare system. By expanding access to free condoms, the federal government goals to advertise safer sexual practices and shield the overall well-being of its residents.
To distribute free condoms, merchandising machines might be installed in five preliminary provinces. Components embrace Chon Buri (Bali Hai Pier, Pattaya City Hospital, and Central Festival Shopping Mall in Pattaya), Bangkok (Thammasat University, Tha Phachan Campus), Nonthaburi (Tonsak Market), Saraburi (Suk Anan Park Shopping Mall), and Pathum Thani (Faculty of Pharmacy, Rangsit University). These areas were chosen strategically to ensure convenient access to condoms for people in different areas.
The free condom initiative is Thailand’s latest move in promoting sexual well being and reducing the prevalence of STIs and unintended pregnancies. By making condoms readily available to universal healthcare cardholders, the government hopes to empower people to make knowledgeable decisions about their sexual well being and contribute to a healthier society total.
In December last year, it was reported that the proportion of AIDS infections has been rising amongst younger Thais in a worrying trend. According to the director of the Disease Control Department’s Division of AIDS, nearly two-thirds of latest HIV infections had been in young people. The director, Dr Cheewanan Lertpiriyasuwat, mentioned this was a lot higher than the global common of around 30%..