Pattana Orders Probe into 60B Baht NHSO Budget with 7-Day Deadline

Public Health Minister Pattana Prompat has initiated an investigation into a massive 60-billion-baht national health security budget that was reportedly not channeled directly through the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH), sparking public queries regarding the recipients and exact objectives of these funds.

The issue was raised on August 3, 2026, at the National Health Security Office (NHSO) after Pattana chaired the 8th NHSO board meeting to discuss draft criteria for operating and managing the 2027 fiscal year budget. He noted that the 60 billion baht figure stems from the 2028 fiscal year allocations that still require transparency, assigning Manida Phu-charoen, chair of the financial sub-committee, to clarify the details within 7 days.

Preliminary data indicates that out of the total amount, roughly 16,000 to 17,000 billion baht was allocated to MOPH-affiliated agencies, though outside the Office of the Permanent Secretary. This includes about 11,000 baht given specifically to Rajavithi Hospital for purchasing specialized medications without other uses, while another 5,000 million baht entered standard MOPH systems. Furthermore, over 20,000 million baht was allocated for disease prevention and health promotion funds, alongside other funds requiring deeper investigation.

“We do not just want to know which agency holds the money, but we must know who the recipient is—whether a legal entity, foundation, or clinic—how they are regulated, and whether their spending is efficient.”

Pattana Prompat

Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event

Addressing questions about the whereabouts of the 60 billion baht, Pattana clarified that the money has not vanished, but rather the distribution method is being questioned. Given that roughly 16 billion baht is confirmed to be inside MOPH agencies, authorities must now examine where the remaining funds were allocated and how they benefit the healthcare system.