Chang Mai University & University hospital

        Today we visited Chang Mai University and the University Hospital! After an introduction to their program we experienced two lectures. One on the Role of the Pharmacist in Thailand and another about the Thailand Health Systems. During our lectures we learned about many differences between America and Thailand's health care system including the total expenditure on health and the ratio of health personal per population. For example, Thailand's population is roughly 67,959,000 with a total expenditure on health of GDP estimated at 4.1% compared to America's 14-15%. While learning about their health care system, health insurance quickly became a large topic of discussion. About 15 years ago Thailand adopted universal healthcare coverage. However, this plan only includes the basics so their are additional options for eligible personnel such as private insurance, government welfare, and their version of social security. Following our lectures we then visited the University Hospital. After a short lecture regarding the inpatient and outpatient systems of the hospital we were taken on a tour to observe their pharmacy division. A successful first visit. We will be back tomorrow!

- Chelsea Kuzio