July 1, 2026

The Department of Mental Health, Ministry of Public Health, has joined forces with the Institute for Education and Development of Conflict Management by Peaceful Means Foundation (I.D.P.) to enhance the conflict management skills of medical personnel. At the invitation of the Department, Mrs. Prakairatana Thontiravong, President of the I.D.P., delivered a keynote lecture outlining the core elements of the Dispute Mediation Act B.E. 2562 (2019) at the Grand Richmond Stylish Convention Hotel.

This initiative is a central part of the “14th Training Program on Dispute Mediation and Conflict Management in the Public Healthcare System,” which ran from June 29 to July 4, 2026. The program’s core objective is to equip public healthcare providers with theoretical knowledge and practical mediation tools. It emphasizes fostering a positive mindset and effective communication, particularly when navigating difficult negotiations, enabling healthcare professionals to manage their emotions and resolve conflicts constructively.

Recognizing the need for specialized expertise, the Department of Mental Health invited Mrs. Prakairatana Thontiravong and her I.D.P. team to lead key instructional sessions. Following the July 1 overview of the Mediation Act, the training continued on the morning of July 4 with a deep dive into the steps and procedures for mediating civil, criminal, and public disputes using simulated scenarios.

Furthermore, during the afternoon of July 4, Mrs. Prakairatana, alongside a six-member team of I.D.P. experts, facilitated a comprehensive hands-on mediation workshop. This practical session allowed participants to directly apply conflict resolution techniques to real-world situations they may face in their daily practice.

This collaboration highlights the I.D.P.’s specialized expertise in advancing alternative justice processes and promoting peaceful conflict management. Ultimately, the partnership aims to tangibly improve service quality, empower medical staff, and proactively reduce disputes within Thailand’s public healthcare sector.