Health Services of Primary Care Units After Transfer to Sisaket Provincial Administrative Organization

Abstract

   This qualitative research aimed to (1) examine the policy implementation in the administration of primary health care units after their transfer to the Sisaket Provincial Administrative Organization, and (2) identify the problems and obstacles arising from this administrative transition. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with key informants from Sub-district Health Promoting Hospitals (SHPHs) of various sizes—small (S), medium (M), and large (L) that had been transferred.

   The findings revealed that during the transition, the primary health care units continued their original missions as previously conducted under the Provincial Public Health Office. These included curative services, health promotion, disease prevention and control, medical rehabilitation, and consumer protection. Notably, the provision of vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic remained a critical public service.

   However, several challenges were identified. The post-transfer organizational structure and workforce framework did not align fully with official guidelines. Some health care units faced staff shortages, and the personnel budget allocations were delayed and incomplete, forcing the Provincial Administrative Organization to cover deficits using its reserve funds. Moreover, the existing regulations from the Department of Local Administration did not adequately encompass the scope of public health responsibilities, leading to the need for provisional application of Ministry of Public Health regulations.