Siriraj Hospital has announced plans to open the Siriraj Academic Center of Geriatric Medicine early next year, a move aimed at enhancing healthcare for Thailand’s aging population. The center, situated on 9.488 acres in Samut Sakhon province, will address the country’s transition into an aged society, with over 20% of its population already over 60 years old.
The center’s first phase is set for a soft launch in January, with an official opening in mid-2024. The facility offers treatment services for elderly patients recovering from critical conditions or major surgeries. According to hospital data, about 30% of elderly patients return to the hospital within two weeks after discharge due to inadequate care at home. The center’s approach includes physical therapy for patients with fractures and assistance in medication and routine activities for stroke patients.
The second phase, expected to open within the next two years, will focus on screening and check-ups for the elderly, including the pre-aging group aged 50-59, to detect health anomalies early. The center also plans to offer intensive training courses for carers and people looking after the elderly.
The project, estimated to cost around 3 billion baht, still requires an additional 2.2 billion baht for completion and future maintenance. To support this, Siriraj Hospital is partnering with the Minor Food Group to raise funds through the MinorCares campaign, generating contributions from sales at more than 1,900 branches of Minor Food brands across the nation. (NNT)
