Challenges and Opportunities for Healthcare Innovation in Super-aging Thailand

Challenges of an Aging Society
Rising noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) pose a significant health challenge in Thailand. Conditions such as diabetes and heart disease account for 74% of deaths and cost the country THB 1.6 trillion annually, equivalent to 9.7% of its GDP. By 2040, the number of diabetes cases alone is projected to reach 5.3 million.

Healthcare costs are also escalating, with spending expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.1% through 2028, placing increasing pressure on both public and private resources. Additionally, workforce shortages are becoming a critical issue. A shrinking working-age population has led to fewer healthcare professionals, exacerbating service gaps in the healthcare system.

To address these challenges, there is a pressing need for preventive care. Early interventions, regular health screenings, and public awareness campaigns are essential in managing chronic illnesses and reducing overall healthcare costs.

Collaborating for Sustainable Healthcare
Addressing these challenges requires collaboration among policymakers, healthcare providers, and private enterprises. DKSH is contributing to a more sustainable healthcare system through innovation and strategic partnerships.

DKSH’s Home Pulse service, adopted by leading hospitals such as Ramathibodi and Thammasat University, provides personalized home-based care, reducing hospital visits and improving healthcare accessibility. Additionally, AI-powered diagnostics, wearable devices, and health apps enable elderly patients to monitor their health while offering real-time insights to healthcare providers.

Through a partnership with Siriraj Hospital, DKSH has introduced digital payment platforms to enhance patient experiences and streamline hospital operations. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) also play a crucial role in developing elder care facilities and improving service delivery.

DKSH’s Patient Purpose Day highlights its commitment to accessible healthcare. In collaboration with the Thai Red Cross Society’s Mobile Ophthalmology Clinic Project, DKSH has supported free eye care treatments for elderly patients in underserved communities.

Key Priorities for Stakeholders
To improve healthcare accessibility and sustainability, stakeholders should focus on the following key priorities:

• Expanding Digital Health Solutions: Leveraging telemedicine and AI-powered tools can enhance healthcare access, particularly in rural areas where medical services are limited.
• Investing in Long-Term Care: Developing elder care facilities through public-private partnerships (PPPs) is essential to meet the growing demand for elderly healthcare services.
• Driving Preventive Care Campaigns: National health campaigns should be promoted to raise awareness and encourage preventive measures for chronic disease management.

A Vision for Inclusive Care
Thailand’s aging population presents both challenges and opportunities. By fostering innovation and building strong partnerships, the healthcare sector can deliver sustainable, inclusive solutions that meet the needs of an aging society.