Abstract
This qualitative research used purposive sampling through in-depth interviews from main caregivers
whose severe ex-thalassemic children underwent successful hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Participated caregivers were interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire based on openended
questioning and tape-recorded after receiving their informed consent. Transcripts of the interviewed
were created verbatim and examined using content analysis.
Results revealed that HSCT treatment procedure requires comprehensive understanding and cooperation
from patients and their families. Economic household burden is the main hindrance for accessibility
toward this service owing to its high direct non-medical costs as well as service charges although
HSCT can be reimbursed from all Thai health insurance schemes.
It is very crucial to prevent new thalassemic cases in order to alleviate the impact on the resource
allocation for treating a preventable disease in both household and public sectors. Therefore, public health
policy makers should consider creating a disease awareness campaign among citizens as well as healthcare
personnel who should have the comprehensive understanding about potential obstacles of the patients or
families and should commit to perform more effective thalassemia screening and prevention both in policy
and routine practice aspects.
