Promoting Social Section 40 Insured Persons in the Dindaeng District, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration

Abstract

This study aimed to: (1) examine the perceptions of informal workers who are insured under Section 40 of the Social Security scheme and those who are not enrolled; (2) explore communication channels and processes influencing awareness; and (3) identify obstacles and propose guidelines for improving communication effectiveness. The study employed a qualitative research approach using documentary analysis combined with semi-structured interviews with eight key informants. The findings reveal differences in perception between informal workers enrolled in Section 40 and those not enrolled. The insured group generally perceives the scheme as a form of long-term social protection and acts as a social security network encouraging others to enroll. In contrast, the uninsured group tends to view contributions as a financial burden and perceives the benefits as not superior to those provided under the Universal Health Coverage Scheme. The most effective communication approach for increasing awareness and enrollment was proactive outreach conducted by officials and social security network representatives in local communities. Major obstacles include attitudinal and economic factors, administrative and personnel limitations, legal and budgetary constraints, as well as communication and information gaps. The study recommends that communication strategies should emphasize the distinctive benefits of Section 40 compared with the Universal Health Coverage Scheme, build confidence that enrollment does not affect existing healthcare entitlements, conduct outreach during periods when business activities slow but vendors remain at their workplaces, and adopt less formal communication approaches to better engage informal workers.