Public Health Policy and Laws Journal

A Human Rights Analysis of Migrant Worker Amnesty Measures in Thailand

Chardsumon Prutipinyo — 2026-01-25

This article examines Thailand’s amnesty measures for migrant workers from three neighboring countries during 2024–2025 through a framework combining labour policy analysis and human rights perspectives. It argues that migrant workers constitute a structural foundation of the Thai economy, particularly in the context of population ageing and persistent labour shortages in key industries. The state’s amnesty measures function as a mechanism for integrating undocumented migrant workers into the legal system through registration, work permits, health screening, and biometric data collection. These measures contribute to reducing irregular migration, enhancing labour market stability, and improving short-term administrative efficiency.

From a human rights perspective, the article contends that the amnesty policy reflects a significant shift from a repressive, control-oriented approach toward a protective framework that recognizes migrant workers as rights-bearing individuals with inherent human dignity. Access to legal employment, health insurance, social protection, and the legal recognition of children and dependents aligns with international human rights and labour standards. Nevertheless, the article highlights key structural limitations, including the temporary nature of the measures, conditional access to rights, financial burdens on workers, and concerns regarding privacy and personal data protection arising from biometric registration. These limitations suggest that migrant workers’ rights remain contingent upon state discretion rather than being guaranteed on a permanent legal basis. The article concludes that sustainable governance of migrant labour in Thailand requires transforming ad hoc amnesty measures into a comprehensive, rights-based labour policy that integrates economic needs with long-term social protection and human dignity.

Content

editor — 2026-01-30

Factors Affecting the Provision of Health Promotion Services by Personnel of Health Promoting Hospitals Transferred to the Provincial Administrative Organization, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province

Kittipan Chuaybunchoo — 2026-01-01

This cross-sectional descriptive study aimed to investigate factors influencing the provision of health promotion services among personnel of health promoting hospitals, transferred to the Nakhon Si Thammarat Provincial Administrative Organization. A total of 192 personnel participated, with data collected via a questionnaire, demonstrated a high reliability (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.97). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential methods, including one-way ANOVA, Pearson’s correlation, and stepwise multiple regression.

The findings revealed that work motivation and health promotion service provision, were at the highest levels (Mean = 4.21, SD = 0.32; Mean = 4.23, SD = 0.43, respectively), while organizational commitment was at a high level (Mean = 4.05, SD = 0.47). The variables of responsibility, credibility, acceptance of organizational goals and values, professional status, job performance success, and career advancement could jointly predict 56.80% of the variance in the provision of health promotion services.

These findings can be utilized by the Provincial Administrative Organization and relevant agencies to enhance motivation and organizational commitment in sustaining effective health promotion services.

Acceptance and Utilization of Cloud-based Healthcare Risk Management System in Community hospital: A Case Study of a Community hospital in Uttaradit Province

Pongsakorn Thatsanarapan — 2026-01-01

A community hospital in Uttaradit province has implemented Risk Management System, for personnel. The objective of this study was to analyze the relationship between personal characteristic factors, information technology acceptance, and the system utilization among hospital staff. Data collected from the sample of 143 individuals through a questionnaire with content validity ranging from 0.67 to 1.00, and reliability of 0.825. The relationships were analyzed using Pearson’s chi-square statistics.

The findings revealed that the majority of respondents were female (83.2%), with a mean age of 39.9 years. The overall acceptance level was high (62.2%), with perceived usefulness scoring the highest average and perceived ease of use scoring the lowest. System usage analysis showed that 70% of personnel had accessed the system at least once in the past month, with the most frequently used function being the recording of risk incident reports (57.1%). Statistical analysis indicated the nature of work and the department of work, had significant relationships with the system utilization. However, no significant relationship was found between information technology acceptance and the system utilization.

In conclusion, the hospital should promote awareness among direct patient care personnel about the importance of the system, easily accessible system, and providing regular training. These measures would enhance acceptance of system utilization, ensuring alignment with sustainable risk management practices.

Factors Associated with Denture Use and Non-use among the Elderly in Wang Phikun Subdistrict, Wang Thong District, Phitsanulok Province

Natcha Jitwareekasem — 2026-01-01

This study aimed to examine the relationship between personal, social, psychological, and situational factors and the use of dentures among older adults in Wang Phikun Subdistrict, Wang Thong District, Phitsanulok province.

This study employed a quantitative cross-sectional design comparing elderly individuals who used and did not use dentures. A total of 300 participants were selected using systematic and simple random sampling based on Taro Yamane’s formula at a 95% confidence level. Data were collected with a researcher-developed questionnaire covering personal, oral health, social, psychological, and situational factors. Content validity was assessed by three experts (IOC = 0.94), and reliability was confirmed using Cronbach’s alpha (0.918). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests to examine associations between factors and denture use at a significance level of 0.05.

The findings revealed that 50.0% of the participants used dentures. Statistically significant associations were found between denture use and personal factors such as annual household income (p=0.003), main source of income (p=0.006), and healthcare coverage (p=0.020). Additionally, social factors including support from family (p=0.046) and dental personnel (p= 0.003) were significantly related to denture use. In contrast, psychological motivation and situational barriers such as travel distance showed no significant association.

The results indicate that economic conditions and social support are key determinants in the decision to use dentures among the elderly.

Therefore, policies should focus on increasing access to oral health education, promoting awareness of healthcare entitlements, and enhancing proactive support from dental professionals to improve denture usage rates and the quality of life in aging populations.

Factors Affecting Policy Implementation of “One ID Card Smart Hospital”: A Case Study of the District Health Promotion Hospital in Health Region 4

Supussorn Wongtawan — 2026-01-01

This is a cross-sectional analytical study, examining the level of, and factors influencing, the policy implementation of the “One ID Card Smart Hospital” initiative. The case study focused on District Health Promotion Hospitals (DHPHs) within Health Region 4. A total of 304 samples were selected through stratified sampling. A structured questionnaire was used as the primary research instrument. Data were analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, as well as inferential statistics, including the Chi-square test and binary logistic regression.

The study revealed that 82.6% of Subdistrict Health Promoting Hospitals (SHPHs) in Health Region 4 operated under the policy at a level requiring further development, while only 17.4% performed at a good level. A key factor influencing policy implementation was the readiness of the health system. SHPHs with a high level of health system readiness were 2.67 times more likely to successfully implement the policy compared to those with lower readiness (95% C.I. = 1.20–5.97,

p = 0.02). The most significant predictive factors included information system readiness and medical technology readiness, both of which are critical components in enhancing the capacity of primary health care services.

The findings provide empirical evidence to guide the development of primary healthcare services. They can inform policy formulation and strategic planning, particularly in strengthening information systems and medical technology infrastructure. This is essential for supporting the effective and sustainable implementation of the “One ID Card Smart Hospital” policy.

Implementing Transboundary Environmental Impact Assessments (TEIA) under the Espoo Convention: Lessons from experience

Parach Runglek — 2026-01-01

This study aims at: (1) investigating the experiences of Parties to the Espoo Convention in implementing Transboundary Environmental Impact Assessments (TEIA); (2) identifying gaps, challenges, and factors influencing successful implementation; and (3) refining key findings to support the development of approaches for managing transboundary impacts in the context of Thailand and other ASEAN countries. A qualitative methodology was employed through documentary analysis. Secondary data were collected from the UNECE website, including (1) questionnaire reports from 11 Party of Origin countries, 4 Affected Parties, and 1 non-Party country, and (2) six reports of the Implementation Committee under the Convention. The findings reveal that the Convention Secretariat serves as a key supporting mechanism that plays a vital role in facilitating coherent and continuous implementation among the Parties. The key challenges can be identified as inconsistency of definitions of transboundary impact, along with unclear identification of Affected Parties, different timeframes applied in the TEIA process, and language barriers for communication among related parties. Factors contributing to more effective implementation include an emphasis on early consultations and the establishment of bilateral agreements between Parties. Accordingly, this study suggests that Thailand and ASEAN countries could strengthen legal frameworks, their cooperation mechanisms, and promote knowledge production and capacity building to deal with transboundary impacts based on the concept of the Espoo Convention.

Needs Assessment of the Dental Nurse Competency at Subdistrict Health Promoting Hospitals in Suphanburi Province

Sarunya Chuenjit — 2026-01-01

This research aimed to assess the competencies of dental nurses, to identify and prioritize their necessary competencies at subdistrict health promoting hospitals, in Suphanburi province, as perceived by both the dental nurses and their supervisors. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, with two phases for exploratory sequential design. Phase 1 involved qualitative research, in-depth interviews were conducted with nine key informants, to develop a competency framework. Phase 2 consisted of quantitative research, utilizing a questionnaire based on the insights gathered from these interviews. The sample population of 160 individuals, comprising 80 dental nurses and 80 supervisors. Data from the surveys were analyzed to prioritize the competencies using the Modified Priority Needs Index (PNI_modified) technique.

The findings indicated that both the dental nurses and the supervisors agreed on the competencies that have the highest levels of need: knowledge (PNI_modified = 0.196 for dental nurses and 0.232 for supervisors), followed by skills (PNI_modified = 0.172 and 0.203, respectively), and personal attributes (PNI_modified = 0.137 and 0.097, respectively). The most critical competencies identified were knowledge of innovative applications, decision-making skills, and the ability to provide first-line care in dental emergencies, as well as the attributes relevant to the development of health and dental innovation. The results of this study are valuable guide for directing personnel development, shaping curricula and training programs, and establishing policies and standards for dental nurses that align with the mission of subdistrict health promotion hospitals.

Organizational Engagement and Quality of Work Life among Different Generations of Personnel at a Community Hospital in Phayao Province: A Comparative Study

Thitirat Taya — 2026-01-01

This study examined 1) personal and organizational factors, organizational engagement, and quality of work life among hospital staff
2) compare organizational engagement across different generations
3) comparison of quality of work life across generations; and 4) the relationship between organizational engagement and quality of work life among personnel at Community Hospital Hospital, Phayao Province.

A descriptive comparative design was applied. The sample consisted of 112 staff members selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected using a questionnaire that was validated for content and reliability. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, multiple linear regression, and Pearson’s correlation.

The results showed that 67.9% of the participants were female. Most belonged to Gen Y (62.5%), followed by Gen X (28.6%) and Gen Z (8.9%). Overall, staff reported a high level of organizational factors, organizational engagement, and quality of work life. Organizational engagement did not differ significantly across generations (p > 0.05). However, quality of work life showed statistically significant differences between generations (p < 0.05). Furthermore, organizational engagement was moderately and positively correlated with quality of work life
(r = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.48–0.71, p < 0.001).

Health belief model and social support affecting the perception of alcohol control laws among entrepreneurs in Thung Khao Luang distric, Roi Et province

Surasak Kanyarat — 2026-01-01

This study employed a cross-sectional descriptive research design to examine the influence of health belief patterns and social support on entrepreneurs’ perceptions of the Alcohol Control Act in Thung Khao Luang District, Roi Et Province. The sample comprised 216 entrepreneurs who owned or operated alcohol retail businesses. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that had been validated for content validity (IOC > 0.50) and demonstrated high reliability (Cronbach’s α = 0.969). Descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, and stepwise multiple linear regression were used for data analysis. The results revealed that the overall levels of health belief, social support, and perception of alcohol control laws among entrepreneurs were high. Four factors were found to significantly predict law perception (p < 0.05): peer social support, community and social support, perceived barriers, and perceived susceptibility. These factors collectively explained 26.8% of the variance in law perception (R² = 0.268). The findings underscore the importance of enhancing social support networks and strengthening health awareness among entrepreneurs to improve compliance with alcohol control laws, thereby contributing to the sustainable reduction of alcohol consumption-related problems in the community.

Factors Relating to Frailty among Community-Dwelling Elderly in Nam-Phrae subdistrict, Hangdong district, Chiang Mai Province

Kanuengnit Singkaewvong — 2026-01-06

Frailty is a significant health concern among older adults, serving as a primary contributor to adverse health outcomes such as falls, increased disease burden, functional decline, permanent disability, and diminished quality of life. This study employed a cross-sectional design to investigate the prevalence and associated factors of frailty among older adults residing in Nam Phrae Subdistrict, Hang Dong District, Chiang Mai Province. A total of 349 participants were selected through simple random sampling using the official registry of older adults. Data were collected using the elderly health screening and assessment form of the Department of Medical Services, Ministry of Public Health. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze general characteristics and frailty prevalence, while binary logistic regression was employed to identify factors associated with frailty.

The study found that 63.69% of the participants were female, with an average age of 68.37 years. The prevalence of frailty was 5.9%. Factors significantly associated with frailty included: Activities of Daily Living (ADL): Older adults who were only partially independent (able to perform some self-care) were 7.80 times more likely to experience frailty compared to those who were fully independent (95% CI = 1.207–50.132, p = 0.031). Nutrition Status: Older adults at risk of malnutrition were 4.20 times more likely to experience frailty compared to those with normal nutritional status (95% text CI = 1.317–13.382, p = 0.015).

These research findings provide empirical evidence that can be utilized to develop appropriate and effective care plans for the elderly.

The Effectiveness of the Basic Life Support Training Program in Bangkok Metropolitan Area

Nittaya Lordkaew — 2026-01-06

Introduction and research objectives: Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) remains a critical public health issue. This quasi-experimental study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a hands-on Basic Life Support (BLS) training program in Bangkok Metropolitan area, using the Knowledge-Attitude-Skill (KAS) framework.

Research methods: 60 participants from Chulabhorn Hospital were randomly allocated into experimental (n=30) and control (n=30) groups. The experimental group received 4-hour hands-on BLS training (theory 120 minutes, practice 120 minutes), while the control group watched a 10-minute instructional video. Knowledge, attitude, and practical skills were assessed before intervention, immediately after, and at 1-month and 3-month follow-ups using validated instruments (Cronbach's alpha >0.70). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, paired t-test, independent t-test, ANCOVA, and repeated measures ANOVA.

Results: The experimental group demonstrated significantly higher knowledge scores post-intervention, with an increase of 7.23 points (p<0.001). The experimental group showed better attitudes (mean difference=3.70, p=0.012) and superior practical skills (mean difference=1.63, p<0.001) compared to the control group. Knowledge retention remained significantly higher at 3-month follow-up in the experimental group (25.80±1.86 vs 23.10±2.51, p<0.001).

Conclusion and Implications: Hands-on BLS training effectively improves knowledge, attitude, and practical skills with sustained retention. Healthcare institutions should implement standardized hands-on training programs for the general public and establish systematic follow-up mechanisms with regular updated training every 3-6 months.

Health and Environmental Impact Assessment Using Life Cycle Assessment of Biomass Fuel and Liquefied Petroleum Gas Usage in Khao Lam Production Processes in Chon Buri Province

Siwapa Sirijamorn — 2026-01-27

Biomass-based Khao Lam production significantly impacts health and the environment. This study compared biomass fuel versus Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) in Saensuk, Chon Buri, integrating health risk assessment and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). Using mixed-methods, including on-site PM2.5/PM10 measurements and ISO 14040/14044-compliant analysis via OpenLCA, the research evaluated four dimensions: human health, ecosystems, resources, and climate change.

The results indicated that biomass combustion emitted PM10 concentrations as high as 166.86 ± 11.93 µg/m³, exceeding those from LPG (97.51 ± 10.06 µg/m³) and surpassing ambient air quality standards by 39.05%. The global warming potential associated with biomass fuel was 4.3 times higher than that of LPG (216.415 vs. 49.6 kg CO₂ eq). In terms of health impacts, biomass use resulted in a total disability-adjusted life year (DALY) loss of 2.87 × 10^-4 DALYs, which was 5.2 times greater than that attributable to LPG. Regarding particle size distribution, biomass combustion primarily produced coarse particles, whereas LPG combustion generated a higher proportion of ultrafine particles smaller than 0.43 µm.

Overall, LPG offers superior performance in both health and environmental dimensions. Nevertheless, socioeconomic constraints remain a key barrier to fuel transition. The findings support policies that promote a transition toward clean energy while safeguarding traditional food knowledge, to enhance community health and foster the sustainability of grassroots economies in tourism-oriented areas.

Model Development of Medical Service Reimbursement for the Inpatient department, Suwannaphum Hospital, Roi-Et Province

Pidsamai Savisai — 2026-01-28

This action research aimed to develop a medical service reimbursement model for the inpatient department of Suwannaphum Hospital. The target group is comprised of 114 personnel involved in the reimbursement process. Research instruments included questionnaires and tools for operational system development. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation) and inferential statistics (paired t-test), while qualitative data were examined using content analysis.

The results showed that the newly developed operational process significantly improved reimbursement efficiency, increasing from 58% to 83.96% in the 2025 fiscal year, and generating additional revenue of 8,548,471.71 THB. The development of the reimbursement model had the following six steps: (1) contextual study and situation analysis, (2) stakeholder meetings to report problems and co-create solutions, (3) plan formulation and approval, (4) implementation of the action plan, (5) process evaluation, and (6) lesson-learned extraction through reflection and identification of improvement strategies.

Post-development evaluation indicated that personnel’s knowledge increased by an average of 2.87 points (SD = 2.17), which was statistically significant (p < .05) at the 95% confidence level. Operational skills increased by an average of 0.35 points (SD = 0.48), ability and readiness for implementation increased by 0.63 points (SD = 0.65), and participation in operations increased by 0.35 points (SD = 0.48). Key success factors were synthesized into a preliminary SVP Model consisting of: (1) an effective system (System), (2) active stakeholder participation (Participation), and (3) value creation with an emphasis on operational sustainability (Value Added).