Thai social security office vows check-ups on clinics for better care
The Social Security Office clarified its commitment to stringent checks on medical facilities under the Social Security system, aiming to enhance the insured’s quality of life.
Niyada Saneemanomai, a government spokesperson, yesterday, March 4, addressed a case where an insured person died of heart failure after receiving treatment at a hospital under the social security system.
The patient was initially examined, prescribed medication, and discharged, but returned the following day with worsened symptoms and subsequently passed away.
Niyada highlighted that the deceased was an insured employee under Section 33.
“An initial investigation revealed that the hospital, where the treatment was received, reported the patient arrived on February 27 at 7.53pm.
“The emergency room doctor examined the patient, conducted an ECG and blood test, prescribed medication, and sent the patient home to rest.
“The patient returned to the hospital at 5.12am on February 28. The emergency doctor conducted further examinations and recommended hospital admission. While being transferred to the inpatient ward, the patient was reviewed by an internal medicine doctor, who ordered an additional abdominal X-ray.
“During the transfer to the X-ray room, the patient experienced drowsiness, muscle rigidity, and unconsciousness. Attempts to resuscitate him in the emergency room were unsuccessful.
“The hospital recommended an autopsy to determine the cause of death, but the family declined. The cause was thus recorded as acute heart failure.”
Niyada further explained that Marasri Jairangsi, the Secretary General of the Social Security Office, instructed relevant departments to expedite a thorough investigation to ensure fairness for all parties involved.
“The hospital is required to submit medical records to a panel of medical advisors and a subcommittee for complaints on medical services, comprising various medical experts, insured representatives, and interdisciplinary professionals.
“They will assess the facts and adhere to set guidelines. Should any delay or negligence in care be identified, the Social Security Office will proceed according to the Social Security Act 1990.”
Niyada added that the secretary general directed provincial social security offices to engage with the family of the dead man, offering support and explaining benefits from the social security fund. This includes the possibility of initial financial assistance for damages incurred from medical services, reported KhaoSod.
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