ABSTRACT
Research was conducted to compare health equity levels between three groups. These groups were compared using the benchmark of fairness. Multistage cluster sampling methods were used. The sample size for quantitative study included 789 subjects in 10 provinces and was strengthened by a qualitative component in the form of in-depth interviews. Data analysis utilized ANOVA and Post-hoc Turkey means. The counters for health equity were analyzed by z-scores.Results revealed a significant difference on 7 of the 9 factors (p \< .001). Comparative measurements on Efficiency and Quality of Care (p=.170) as well as Administrative efficiency (p=.227) were not significant. With regards to z score analysis Thai National Citizens were the highest scored (z=.3293), Hill tribe Thai national citizens were average scored (z=.0516) and Hill tribe stateless were the lowest scored (z=-.3885). The means to reduce the gap between groups from the expertise aimed 1) The Hill tribe stateless data base. 2) The health needs budget for The Hill tribe stateless. 3) Only one standard in all health care units. 4) The disfigured nationality laws to support the stateless hill tribe. 5) The decentralization to local government to provide health services.In conclusion, the government health care units service all groups health needs in Thailand. It is here suggested that the Thai government bridge the gap with consistent policy to reduce the gaps between groups in all directions.
ABSTRACT
This quasi-experimental research aims at determining the effects of management for changing behavior of essential hypertensive elderly patients by using social support from patients’ family members, group process and Deming cycle (PDCA). Samples consisted of 71 essential hypertensive elderly patients whom were treated in an urban primary care unit, Nakhon Phanom Province. Thirty-five patients were assigned to an experimental group while 36 patients were assigned to a comparison group. They were selected by using specific criteria. Data were collected during February-April 2007 through interview schedule and blood pressure record from before and after experiment. Data were analyzed by percentage, mean, standard deviation, maximum, minimum, paired t-test and independent t-test. The results of the study revealed that the experimental group gained significantly more knowledge, taking the antihypertensive drug behavior and social support than before that of the comparison group at p \< 0.05. The experimental group had systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure lower than before and than that of the comparison group at p \< 0.05. The study concludes that using social support from patients’ family members, group process and quality management (PDCA) had improved knowledge, behavior of taking the antihypertensive drug and the controlling blood pressure.