Abstract:
This cross-sectional study aims 1) to examine perception of responsibilities of legal roles and 2) to investigate their low enforcement duties of consumer protection laws in among District public health officers (DHOs). The study sample consists of 272 individuals appointed as district public health officers, selected using multi-stage probability sampling. Data collection was conducted through both paper-based and electronic questionnaires, which comprised of three sections: general information, awareness of legal roles in health consumer protection, and compliance with health consumer protection laws. The content validity of the instrument presented between 0.67 and 1.00, with reliability at 0.73. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as including frequency, percentage, maximum, minimum, mean, and standard deviation were used to describe the data. Inferential statistics, including Independent t-test and One-way ANOVA, were employed to compare levels of perception and confidence in performing duties across different personal factors. The findings revealed that DHOs had a high level of perception regarding their legal roles in consumer protection and a moderate level of confidence in performing related duties. Gender, age, length of service, educational level, and regional location were not significantly associated with differences in perception or confidence. Notably, 33.45% of DHOs had not been issued official identification cards as authorized officers. Additionally, 12.13% had never carried out drug destruction in accordance with the Drug Act B.E. 2510 (1967), while a similar proportion reported engaging in duties beyond their legal mandate. Most law enforcement activities were conducted in collaboration with other agencies. These findings suggest the need to clearly define the legal roles and responsibilities of DHOs under ministerial regulations governing the structure of regional health agencies. Furthermore, the development of practical manuals and capacity-building programs is essential to enhance legal understanding and enforcement. It is also recommended that all appointed DHOs be issued official identification cards to enable lawful and effective operations in their respective jurisdictions.