The fragility of economic growth and the ensuing social crisis in the region pointed to the need for a two-pronged strategy of inclusiveness and comprehensiveness as far as social protection systems were concerned. The new government made an election promise to start a ‘30 Baht’ universal health-care scheme, which it implemented on gaining power. In spite of concerns that public expenditure on health would become unsustainable, the scheme has proved to be a success both politically and fiscally.