On March 9, 2024, Dr. Cholnan Srikaew, the Minister of Public Health, Thailand, visited Bangkok Hospital Hatyai's facility at Pak Bara Tourist Pier, Satun Province. This center serves as a vital referral hub for patients from numerous islands, including Koh Lipe, catering to the health needs of over 1,000 Thai and foreign tourists daily. Koh Lipe, renowned for its tourism potential, attracts approximately 500,000 to 1,000,000 visitors annually, with around 3,000 entrepreneurs and employees supporting its tourism infrastructure.

Dr. Cholnan emphasized the government's commitment to bolstering the national economy, with the tourism sector being a pivotal revenue generator. With an anticipated influx of 34.5 million foreign tourists to Thailand in 2024, the Ministry of Public Health prioritizes tourist safety as an accelerated policy. This includes enhancing disease surveillance, emergency medical services, accommodation and food safety standards, and medical facilities in tourist destinations.

Associate Professor Dr. Kritaungkun Chetpaophan, M.D., Managing Director and Hospital Director of Bangkok Hospital Hatyai, highlighted the hospital's collaboration with Ban Ko Lipe Subdistrict Health Promotion Hospital and Pak Bara Tourist Health Center since 2018. Bangkok Hospital Hatyai contributes medical equipment, medications, supplies, and expertise in treating conditions such as heart disease, brain injuries, and emergencies. Innovative systems for monitoring temperature-sensitive medications and vaccines have also been implemented, alongside a service center for foreign tourists. These efforts enhance patient referrals from island areas and ensure the well-being of both Thai and international visitors, fostering confidence in tourism in Satun Province.

For further information about Bangkok Hospital Hatyai, please visit www.bangkokhatyai.com.