title: Advanced health biotechnologies in Thailand: redefining policy directions.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Thailand faces a significant burden in terms of treating and managing degenerative and chronic diseases. Moreover, incidences of rare diseases are rising. Many of these-such as diabetes, cancer, and inherited inborn metabolic diseases-have no definite treatments or cure. Meanwhile, advanced health biotechnology has been found, in principle, to be an effective solution for these health problems.
  
  
  METHODS
  Qualitative approaches were employed to analyse the current situation and examine existing public policies related to advanced health biotechnologies in Thailand. The results of this analysis were then used to formulate policy recommendations.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Our research revealed that the system in Thailand in relation to advanced health biotechnologies is fragmented, with multiple unaddressed gaps, underfunding of research and development (R&D), and a lack of incentives for the private sector. In addition, there are no clear definitions of advanced health biotechnologies, and coverage pathways are absent. Meanwhile, false advertising and misinformation are prevalent, with no responsible bodies to actively and effectively provide appropriate information and education (I&E). The establishment of a specialised institution to fill the gaps in this area is warranted.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The development and implementation of a comprehensive national strategic plan related to advanced health biotechnologies, greater investment in R&D and I&E for all stakeholders, collaboration among agencies, harmonisation of reimbursement across public health schemes, and provision of targeted I&E are specifically recommended.
authors.affiliation: Pharmaceutical Consultant, Bangkok, Thailand. romanperezvelasco@gmail.com
authors.forename: Román Pérez
authors.initials: RP
authors.lastname: Velasco
authors.forename: Usa
authors.initials: U
authors.lastname: Chaikledkaew
authors.forename: Chaw Yin
authors.initials: CY
authors.lastname: Myint
authors.forename: Roongnapa
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Khampang
authors.forename: Sripen
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Tantivess
authors.forename: Yot
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Teerawattananon
mesh_terms: D001709:Biotechnology; D006291:Health Policy; D013785:Thailand