Moving beyond Occupational Health: Lessons from Implementing Integrated Worker Health Programs among Informal Workers in Thailand

Background: This paper aims to present practical experiences and lessons learned from applying an integrated worker health approach among informal workers in Thailand. The approach draws on the concept of Total Worker Health (TWH) and is implemented through Primary Care Units (PCUs). Methods: This is an invited commentary. Results: Key steps included: (1) identification of occupational health (OH) services provided by PCUs; (2) development and refinement of an integrated worker health assessment tool based on TWH principles; (3) assessment and problem identification among informal workers, highlighting combined occupational and lifestyle-related risks; (4) design and implementation of integrated interventions; and (5) stakeholder engagement and reflection on implementation challenges. Conclusion: Lessons learned highlight the value of integrated approaches, multidisciplinary collaboration, and stakeholder engagement. Capacity building of frontline staff and the development of simple, practical models may support broader implementation of integrated worker health programs among informal workers. Keywords: Informal workers, integrated worker health, occupational health, lifestyle factors, lessons learned, primary care