Youth-Friendly Health Services Policy in Thailand

Abstract Issue/problem Thailand continues to face adolescent sexual and reproductive health (SRH) challenges, including high teen birth rates and rising sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Despite a declining total fertility rate, adolescent SRH issues persist, impacting health, education, and economic outcomes. Addressing these challenges is crucial for achieving SDG 3.7 on universal SRH access by 2030. Description of the problem In response, Thailand launched the Youth-Friendly Health Services (YFHS) programme in 2006, aligned with WHO guidance and the Prevention and Solution of the Adolescent Pregnancy Problem Act (2016). This review examines YFHS policy development and implementation (2006-2025) using official documents, public data, and an analysis of its impact on healthcare practice. It focuses on: How has YFHS impacted adolescent SRH outcomes? What barriers remain? Results By 2023, adolescent birth rates dropped by over half (20.9 per 1,000 women aged 15-19), outperforming global and upper-middle-income averages (39.0 and 23.3). YFHS expanded to 903 clinics nationwide, with 90% conducting self-assessments and over half meeting national quality standards aligned with WHO/UNAIDS Global Standards (2015). Digital innovations, such as the “Teen Club” LINE Official Account, improved accessibility. However, barriers remain: repeat births, high early pregnancies (ages 10-14), and rising rates of STIs. Lessons Key lessons from the review include the importance of strong government commitment, comprehensive legislation, multi-sectoral collaboration, and leveraging digitals platforms. Thailand's experience offers adaptable strategies to strengthen adolescent SRH. Future efforts should expand service coverage, improve provider attitudes, and ensure inclusion of boys and marginalised groups (e.g., LGBTQ+ youth, adolescents with disabilities, and migrants). Key messages • Thailand’s YFHS policy significantly reduced teen birth rates and improved SRH service quality. • Strong leadership, supportive laws, and cross-sector collaboration are key to effective adolescent SRH programmes.