Bangkok: The Cabinet has approved a universal healthcare scheme aimed at supporting the families of military personnel who have died in clashes along the Thai-Cambodian border, ensuring they receive medical benefits equivalent to those of civil servants.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Lalida Periswiwatana, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, announced that the government is committed to providing "Hero Universal Health Coverage" benefits to the families of 27 military personnel who lost their lives while on duty. The initiative aims to address the loss of civil servant medical benefits for 40 family members and ensure they receive proper and dignified medical care through the National Health Security Scheme.
The National Health Security Office (NHSO) has been tasked with managing the "UC Heroes" benefits, which will allow the affected families to access medical care equivalent to civil servant welfare benefits. These benefits are designed to continue until eligible individuals obtain other legal medical benefits, and for the deceased's children, coverage will extend until they reach adulthood. The NHSO will oversee the administration and utilization of these benefits, adhering to the established guidelines.
The NHSO estimates an annual operating budget of 780,040 baht for the scheme. For the fiscal year 2026, it plans to request funding from the central budget's emergency reserve. In subsequent years, the allocation will be proposed through the regular annual budget process. Ms. Lalida emphasized the government's responsibility to support the families of military personnel and government officials who have sacrificed their lives for the nation's sovereignty and public safety. She stated that caring for the families of these brave individuals is a state responsibility, ensuring they receive continuous and respectful care.