Benefits and complaints about hemodialysis costs in patients with chronic renal failure: Case Studies of National Health Security Coverage

Abstract

There is a rise in the number of complaints about the benefits and costs of hemodialysis in chronic renal failure patients in the national health insurance system. Renal Replacement Therapy (RRT) is an expensive medical treatment.  In order to reduce the medical expenses burden for Thai people, on October 30, 2007, the cabinet approved the extension of the coverage of reimbursement for end-stage renal disease in the national health insurance system.  It covers kidney dialysis for all patients, with Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD), as the first service.  Also known as PD first policy, except in cases where there is a prohibition of peritoneal dialysis.  Even medical personnel still have conflicting opinions on this policy. Therefore, it may be the cause of patient's distrust about the treatment plan.  The solution to remedy the situation is for The National Health Security Office to provide channel, for all patient groups, to have convenient and easy access for necessary information.  Hospitals, or related organizations, should provide necessary information and protect benefits, on the behalf of all patients.  Finally, patients and their relatives should be aware of their rights and benefits, in order for all parties to be able to carry out their responsibilities and receive the maximum benefit, from the national budget, and also to reduce the number of complaints that may follow.