Key Success Factors of Service Plan in Regional Health Center No 8, Thailand

Abstract

The objectives of this study were to evaluated the outcomes of the service plan implemeted in the health region 8 of Thailand which was under the responsibility of the Regional Health Center 8 situated in Udon Thani, and to identify key success factors of health service in the region. It was conducted in 2014 using both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Quantitative data were collected through the review of health reports of the first 6 months of the fiscal year 2014 from all 7 provinces in the region; and the qualitative data were obtained through in-depth interview, focus group discussions and a set of questionnaire. It was found that the service plan was consistent with the regional context, and produced successful results with regard to the reduction of incidence and mortality of priority diseases, patient-waiting time and budget. The successes of service plan in 4 main tracks (cardiovascular diseases, cancer, maternal and child health, and emergency medical services) were observed. For the track of cardiovascular disease, the anticoagulant (streptokinase) availability had covered all community hospitals. The patients were able to conveniently access to the services which reduced mortality and disability. For the emergency service track, patients were able to obtain standard services in a seamless manner with easy access and effective referral system. The outcomes for the maternal and child health track had achieved the targets; although more common incidents of teen pregnancy were observed. As for the cancer tract, the services were provided to raise awareness and target behavioral change to prevent cholangiocarcinoma as well as to reduce patient waiting time for cancer treatment. The key success factors were identified to be the clear region health center policies, strategies and guidelines; leadership; good relationship among district health teams; suitable allocation of appropriate resources; good planning, monitoring and evaluation; participation of and support from local administration and communities; promotion of appropriate information systems; and the positive morale of health workforce.