Phuket-
In a move towards becoming an “AIDS-Free Province,” Phuket has launched a two-day workshop aimed at strengthening its HIV/AIDS monitoring and response systems. Held at Bukitta Hotel in Phuket Town, the event was opened by Mr. Teerapong Chuaychu, Provincial Secretary of Phuket, who explained the province’s commitment to ending the HIV/AIDS epidemic through coordinated, data-driven action.
Organized by the Phuket Provincial Public Health Office, the workshop brought together 50 representatives from government agencies, healthcare providers, and civil society to refine strategies and build cross-sector teamwork. The project aligns with Thailand’s national goal of eliminating AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
Dr. Mueanprae Boonlom, Deputy Provincial Public Health Doctor, presented sobering statistics: Phuket is projected to have 6,343 people living with HIV by the end of 2025, accounting for 1.1% of the national total and 18.3% of cases in Health Region 11. High-risk groups include sex workers, men who have sex with men, transgender individuals, and people who inject drugs. Alarmingly, infection rates among youth are also on the rise.
To address these challenges, Phuket has adopted an accelerated strategic plan for 2023–2030, setting ambitious targets:
- Fewer than 11 new HIV infections per year
- No more than 15 AIDS-related deaths annually
- A reduction in HIV-related stigma and discrimination by at least 10%
The province is implementing the RRTTPR framework—Reach, Recruit, Test, Treat, Prevention, and Retain—designed to ensure comprehensive and sustained care for affected populations.
Dr. Kusuma Sawangpan, Head of Communicable Disease Control, showed the importance of integrating community voices and frontline experiences into policy development. “Ending AIDS requires more than medical intervention—it demands empathy, equity, and enduring partnerships,” she said.
The workshop features expert lectures, case study presentations, interactive discussions, and group brainstorming sessions. Participants include members of the provincial AIDS subcommittee and representatives from local health networks, all working toward a unified roadmap to eliminate HIV/AIDS in Phuket by 2030.
As the province intensifies its efforts, officials stress that success hinges on inclusive engagement and unwavering commitment from every sector of society.
