A Chinese state enterprise has expressed a keen interest in investing 10 billion baht to establish a medical and wellness centre in Hat Yai. This initiative, supported by Thailand’s Public Health Ministry, aims to alleviate hospital overcrowding and enhance medical tourism within the region. Announced by Deputy Public Health Minister Dechit Khaothong, the project is designed to cater to both Thai citizens and foreign nationals alike.
During a press conference, Minister Dechit revealed that further discussions regarding the investment, structured under a public-private partnership (PPP) model, are set to take place soon. Although details remain sparse, he stressed the importance of consulting with Dr Montien Kanasawadse, the Permanent Secretary of the Public Health Ministry, before any formal agreements are made.
The 130-rai area designated for the medical centre has been generously donated by a local resident, ensuring the project has a solid foundation. Minister Somsak Thepsuthin has emphasised that this facility is a response to the increasing demands on healthcare services in southern Thailand, especially due to the overburdened Hat Yai Hospital, which often operates over its capacity.
The donated land, characterised by its flood-resistant heights and proximity to major highways, presents an ideal location for the new centre. Plans indicate that the facility will provide cutting-edge medical services to residents of southern border provinces and attract medical tourists from Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia. Furthermore, preparations for the site are already underway with an initial allocation of 92 million baht for landscaping.
Upon its completion, the centre will support the healthcare needs of the seven lower southern provinces and will also include a health town and medical college, cementing its status as a regional healthcare hub. This ambition aligns with Thailand’s strategy to invite private investments to bolster public hospital services, with plans for upgrades at seven hospitals already in motion for next year.
A Chinese state enterprise plans to invest 10 billion baht in a medical and wellness centre in Hat Yai, backed by Thailand’s Public Health Ministry. The centre will alleviate overcrowding at local hospitals, boost medical tourism, and support healthcare services across southern Thailand. The project will utilise a donated 130-rai plot of land and is part of a broader effort to enhance public hospital infrastructure via public-private partnerships.
The proposed medical and wellness centre in Hat Yai, backed by a Chinese state enterprise, is set to revolutionise healthcare in southern Thailand. With a 10 billion baht investment, the project aims to ease hospital overcrowding, attract medical tourists, and provide advanced healthcare services. The collaboration under a public-private partnership model promises a brighter future for medical infrastructure in the region.
Original Source: www.nationthailand.com
