Thai Government Seeks Public Input on Draft Optometry Regulation
The Thai government has opened a public consultation period for a new draft royal decree aimed at regulating the optometry profession.
On October 26, 2026, the Thai government announced that the Department of Health Service Support (DHSS) under the Ministry of Public Health is inviting public feedback on a draft Royal Decree concerning the optometry profession. This consultation period, which runs from today until November 13, 2026, is accessible via the government's central legal portal.
According to Deputy Government Spokesperson Ploy-Talay Laksameesangchan, the initiative aims to formalize optometry as a recognized field of the healing arts. Currently, the profession is governed by Section 31 of the 1999 Sanatorium Act and subsequent Ministry of Public Health notifications. The proposed decree seeks to establish clearer standards for practitioners specializing in eye care and vision services.
For residents and expatriates in Thailand, this development is significant as it reflects an ongoing effort to standardize medical and health-related services. By regulating the optometry profession more strictly, the government aims to ensure higher quality care for patients seeking vision correction and eye health services.
It remains to be confirmed how the final version of the decree will be structured following the conclusion of the public feedback period. Interested parties, including medical professionals and the general public, are encouraged to review the draft and submit their opinions through the official government channel before the November 13 deadline.
