Development of Herbal Medicine Prescription Guidelines in the Health Service Network of Phon Phisai District, Nong Khai Province

Abstract

          This Participatory Action Research (PAR) study aimed to (1) examine the prevailing situation surrounding herbal medicine prescription, (2) develop corresponding prescribing guidelines, and (3) evaluate the outcomes of their implementation within the health service network of Phon Phisai District. The sample comprised 15 medical personnel selected through purposive sampling in accordance with predetermined inclusion criteria. Data collection instruments included questionnaires, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions. The study was conducted between October and December 2025. Data were analyzed using content analysis, descriptive statistics (percentage, mean, and standard deviation), and inferential statistics employing the Wilcoxon Signed-Ranks Test.

          The results revealed that, prior to the intervention, personnel possessed a moderate level of knowledge regarding herbal medicine prescription and encountered barriers such as limited confidence in treatment efficacy, inadequate academic evidence, and an insufficiently comprehensive reimbursement system. In response, the researcher developed prescribing guidelines by identifying target disease groups, producing a practical operational manual, and organizing a three-hour skills review workshop. Following the intervention, results demonstrated a statistically significant increase in knowledge (p < 0.001) and the highest level of confidence across four core competency domains, resulting in a sustained increase in the volume of herbal medicine prescriptions.

          In conclusion, the development of herbal medicine prescription guidelines within the Phon Phisai District health service network effectively enhanced the knowledge, confidence, and clinical practice of healthcare personnel. It furthermore contributed to reducing inconsistency in prescribing practices and enhancing service quality in alignment with national policy on the promotion of herbal medicine. The findings of this study may serve as a model for expansion into other areas, supporting the sustainable integration of traditional Thai medicine and herbal remedies into the health service system.