Bangkok:The government is set to showcase Thailand's universal health coverage system and Village Health Volunteer (VHV) network at the IMF-World Bank 2026 forum. This initiative aims to highlight the country's public health strengths and promote the health economy on a global scale.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, Ms. Lalida Periswiwatana, stated that Mr. Pattana Promphat, Minister of Public Health, is preparing an exhibition for the Thailand Pavilion at the IMF-World Bank Annual Meetings 2026, which Thailand is hosting from October 12-18. The exhibition aims to demonstrate Thailand's potential in community-level healthcare and the development of a health economy and healthcare service industry.
The Thailand Pavilion exhibition will open on October 12th and feature three main zones. The Longevity zone will focus on the universal health coverage system, ensuring citizens have access to essential health services without facing high costs. It will cover services from health promotion and disease prevention to medical treatment, rehabilitation, and palliative care.
The exhibition will also highlight the nationwide network of Village Health Volunteers (VHVs), which play a crucial role in linking the public health system with communities. These volunteers provide health education, conduct disease surveillance and prevention, carry out household health surveys, and coordinate care. This model emphasizes community participation in healthcare beyond hospital treatment.
Additionally, the Longevity Zone will showcase Thailand's health and wellness industry, including healthy food, bio-cosmetics, Thai massage, precision medicine, and wellness services. This reflects Thailand's capability to develop a robust public healthcare system and related products into economic and investment opportunities.
Ms. Lalida emphasized that the forum offers a significant opportunity to present Thailand's healthcare strengths to global economic and financial policymakers. The country's strengths include access to public health services, community-based healthcare, and the advancement of a healthy economy, contributing to improved quality of life and sustainable economic growth.