Phuket hospital gets cancer care cash to kickstart cure (video)
Phuket’s medical scene is on the brink of a major transformation, thanks to two hefty contributions that have been earmarked for the region’s first government-run cancer treatment facility at Vachira Phuket Hospital.
The Vachira Phuket Hospital is set to welcome a brand-new Radiation Therapy Building, funded by donations ringing in at a staggering 1.5 million baht.
In a formal affair yesterday, December 5, Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat, alongside his wife Busadee and a contingent of local officials, graciously received the donations.
Contributing to this noble cause, Lienkin Rakchon and family pledged 500,000 baht, and Wirat Songsaeng, the Managing Director of Mukdara Beach Resort Co Ltd, generously added a cool 1 million baht.
The bold initiative seeks a whopping 290 million bahtto erect a six-storey complex, featuring top-notch radiation therapy facilities, nuclear medicine, a chemotherapy unit, and inpatient wards.
Set across 9,000 square metres on a five-rai plot gifted along Pracha Uthit Road, the site is conveniently located just 4 kilometres from Vachira Phuket Hospital.
Phuket News reported that this state-of-the-art cancer centre aims to elevate the standard of oncology care in Phuket, bringing treatment into closer reach, boosting survival odds, and offering a better quality of life for patients in the region.
Pramookpisitt Achariyachai, Chairman of the Vachira Phuket Hospital Development Committee, shared the ambitious project timeline.
“We need 150 million baht by February 2025 to kick off the first phase, with an eye on completing the project and delivering initial radiation therapy by September 9, 2026.
“Once operational, this groundbreaking facility will serve patients not only in Phuket but also in neighbouring Phang Nga and Krabi, sparing them the lengthy journeys currently necessary to seek comprehensive cancer care further afield.”
Highlighting the urgent need for local radiation services, Dr Wirasak Lothongkham, Director of Vachira Phuket Hospital, added that the hospital faces about 1,000 new cancer cases, half of which need radiation.
“Presently, we send these patients off to far-off provinces like Surat Thani or Bangkok. This poses a hefty financial burden on them, covering travel, lodging, and meals.”
Phaapaa ceremony
To bolster the fundraising drive, a traditional Thai donation phaapaa ceremony (a traditional Buddhist merit-making event in Thailand) will take place at Vachira Phuket Hospital on February 8.
The ceremony will be presided over by Luang Por Sai Thong Techa Thammo of Wat Pa Huai Kum in Chaiyaphum Province, a revered monk celebrated for his philanthropic efforts towards hospitals and schools throughout Thailand.
Organisers are calling on individuals from all walks of life, regardless of race or religion, to join in and back this worthy cause. Donations towards the construction fund can be directed to the following bank account:
- Bank: Krung Thai Bank
- Account Name: Donation for the Radiation Therapy Building, Vachira Phuket Hospital
- Account Number: 805-3-11019-3
Taxpayers, take note! Contributions to this campaign are eligible for double tax deductions under Thai law, making it an attractive philanthropic opportunity.
For further information, interested parties can reach out to Vachira Phuket Hospital at 076-361234, extension 0.
What Other Media Are Saying
- All Can highlights rising cancer rates in Thailand despite universal healthcare, citing delays in access due to travel, bureaucracy, and data management, while the Cancer Anywhere programme enhances treatment access and outcomes.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news.
Why is the establishment of a cancer treatment facility in Phuket crucial for the region?
It provides accessible care, reduces travel costs for patients, and improves survival rates by offering local treatment options.
How might the new cancer centre impact the local economy and community in Phuket?
It could boost the local economy through job creation and support services, while enhancing community health and wellbeing.
What if the fundraising goals for the cancer centre aren’t met by the proposed deadlines?
Delays could occur in construction and service provision, prolonging patient travel burdens and impacting community health outcomes.
How does the double tax deduction incentive encourage donations for the cancer centre?
It provides financial benefits to donors, potentially increasing contributions by reducing their effective donation costs.
What role do community events play in supporting healthcare projects like Phuket’s cancer centre?
They raise awareness, foster community engagement, and generate funds, crucial for project success and sustainability.
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