PREFACE
The health workforce means nothing in isolation; it must link closely with a health
system. However, the health system and the health workforce are dynamic entities that
are shaped by country and global contexts. This discussion of the Thai health workforce
focuses on 3 cadres: doctors, nurses and primary care workers (PCWs). These three
interrelated groups are critical to the Thai rural health system. Doctors play important
roles as clinical experts. However, nurses have become attractive middle-level care
providers who are able to fill in gaps when there is shortage of doctors and a great need
for cost-effective care. Primary care workers play active roles in preventive care and the
promotion of care.
This paper will discuss the experiences and challenges of the Thai health workforce in a
dynamic context. The discussion starts with an overview of Thailand’s health system in
relation to economic, demographic, public and health policy changes. The health
workforce situation and challenges as well as policy initiatives and programs aimed at
addressing health workforce challenges are subsequently discussed. The paper ends with
a discussion of future challenges and key information and evidence gaps.