The Evaluation of the Performance of the Local Health Security Fund in Kantharalak Municipality, Sisaket Province

Abstract

This study is an action research aimed at examining and evaluating the operations of the local health insurance fund in Kantharalak Municipality. The population consists of the local health insurance fund of Kantharalak Municipality. The sample group comprises the committee of the local health insurance fund, the subcommittee of the health insurance fund, and stakeholders involved in planning the fund's projects, totaling 50 people. The tools used are in-depth interviews, interviews, and questionnaires. Data collection methods involved inquiries, interviews, and workshops. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, including frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and qualitative data analysis through content analysis.

The study found that the local health insurance fund of Kantharalak Municipality operates under the vision of making Kantharalak a sustainable health-promoting city, where citizens enjoy a good quality of life and have equal access to health services. The health insurance fund is overseen by a committee chaired by the mayor of Kantharalak, with the municipal secretary serving as the secretary. Additionally, five subcommittees have been appointed. The operational policy is based on three principles: participation, equity, and sustainability. This is guided by four strategic issues: promoting health and disease prevention, enhancing community health capacity, developing a comprehensive health service system, and addressing specific health issues in the area. The evaluation of the management of local health insurance funds revealed that it’s a fund with good potential, scoring 71 points in its management. The area with the highest score is the effectiveness of receiving tangible benefits (in terms of health),          at 80.0%. Conversely, the area with the lowest score is the efficiency of fund disbursement management, at 55.0%. Regarding the effectiveness of fund operations, it was found that the majority of the sample had a moderate level of knowledge and understanding, at 50.0%. The level of participation in operations was high, at 92.0%, while the level of satisfaction was moderate, at 62.0%. The operations of the Kantharalak Municipality Health Security Fund are situated within the context of a medium-sized city with a diverse population and various health issues. Although there have been satisfactory results in many areas, it still faces significant challenges regarding financial sustainability, personnel development, and inter-agency integration. Future development needs to focus on strengthening community resilience to become more self-reliant and on technology to enhance service efficiency for the success of the fund in the future.