University of Phayao, in collaboration with Phayao Provincial Administrative Organization, has launched a joint initiative to strengthen the province’s primary health care system by enhancing the capacity of community healers from ethnic groups including Hmong and Iu Mien and local residents. The program integrates modern public health knowledge with local wisdom to improve access, equity, and quality of care at the community level.
The training was conducted on 15–16 and 21–22 February 2026 at the School of Public Health, University of Phayao. Key modules covered the role of community healers within primary health care, traditional and Thai medicine, community health management, disease surveillance, and appropriate referral pathways ensuring effective coordination with public health services.
A key outcome of the collaboration is the clear elevation of standards and competencies for community healers, enabling them to play a defined and effective role within area-based health systems. This progress culminated in the awarding of certificates to graduates of “Community Healers, Cohort 2.” The certificate ceremony, held on 22 February 2026, was presided over by Thawat Suttawong, President of the Phayao Provincial Administrative Organization.
This partnership reflects a strong commitment by academia and local government to build an accessible, inclusive, and high-quality primary health care system, positioning Phayao as a model province for community-based health development and long-term sustainability.