Senator Questions Public Health Ministry Over Community Nurse Volunteer Project
Key points
- Senator Dr.
- Premsak Piayura has demanded transparency from the Minister of Public Health regarding the controversial Community Nurse Volunteer (CNV) project, citing concerns over budget allocation and potential political misuse.
On October 19, 2026, Senator Dr. Premsak Piayura addressed the media at the Parliament, expressing concern over the Ministry of Public Health’s Community Nurse Volunteer (CNV) project. The initiative, which aims to recruit 7,256 volunteers—one for each sub-district—with a monthly stipend of 15,000 baht, has faced significant pushback from the Thailand Nursing and Midwifery Council. The Council is currently gathering 100,000 signatures to oppose the program.
Dr. Premsak criticized Minister of Public Health Phatthana Phomphat for postponing a scheduled parliamentary inquiry regarding the project's necessity and budget efficiency. The Senator raised pointed questions about whether the billion-baht annual budget is being used effectively to improve healthcare or if it serves as a tool to build political influence at the local level. He also highlighted concerns regarding the potential overlap of duties with existing professional nursing staff and the lack of clear selection criteria.
For residents, this debate highlights ongoing tensions regarding the allocation of public health resources and the quality of community-level medical services. While the government claims the project will increase health manpower, critics argue that professional nurses remain understaffed and awaiting formal employment. It remains to be confirmed how the Ministry will address these transparency concerns and whether the project will proceed as planned or face significant revisions following the public opposition campaign.
