The National Health Security Office (NHSO) board has approved the provision of free hormone therapy to transgender people, under the 30-baht universal healthcare program.
NHSO Secretary-General Jadej Thammatacharee said today that this latest service marks an important step in promoting the rights of LGBTQ+ communities and reducing the risks posed by the misuse of hormones in gender affirmation.
The therapy involves using oestrogen for those transitioning to female and testosterone for those transitioning to male, often alongside anti-androgens or progesterone.
Hormone therapy can significantly improve mental wellbeing, body image and overall quality of life, while also reducing gender dysphoria and the risk of suicide attempts, according to the NHSO.
Jadej sad that the hormone therapy service can be launched immediately, with the hormones being distributed through Rajavithi Hospital and the Government Pharmaceutical Organisation to state-run hospitals and health offices across the country.
In the initial stage, he said only six types of hormone will be distributed, some of which must be prescribed by specialists, who have been trained in handling the medication to suit the gender of the individuals, after a heath assessment.
According to the NHSO report, there are currently about 20,000 transgender people who are in need of hormone therapy.
Jadet noted, however, that the actual number of transgender people in Thailand may reach several tens of thousands.
