Thailand’s National Health Security Office (NHSO) has approved a plan to make hormone therapy for gender affirmation part of its Universal Health Coverage, also known as the Gold Card system.
With a budget of over 145 million baht set for fiscal year 2025, the move aims to support the well-being of transgender and gender-diverse Thais by providing safe, accessible, and medically supervised hormone treatment.
Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin led the meeting on July 7 that finalized the decision. He said the new benefit aligns with the government’s commitment to gender equality and inclusive healthcare.
The program will cover six essential hormone medications and will set up dedicated service units across the country. These will work with existing social organizations that support the transgender community.
Officials say the goal is to reduce the risks of self-medicating, which has caused serious health problems for many trans people. Hormone therapy will be administered under professional supervision, following guidelines from the Medical Council of Thailand.
Somsak credited the policy shift to collaboration between several sectors and ongoing efforts to create a more equal and dignified society for all.
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