The new centre, located on the 10th floor of the Emergency and Heart Centre building at Vachira Phuket Hospital, was officially opened in a ceremony attended by senior health officials, including Phuket Vice Governor Suwit Phansengiam and hospital director Weerasak Lorthongkam.
The initiative marks a shift towards what officials describe as a “new dimension” of healthcare, focusing on prevention before illness through integrated physical, mental and lifestyle-based approaches, said an official report of the event.
“This centre reflects our commitment to modern healthcare that prioritises prevention and long-term wellbeing,” Mr Phatthana said.
Developed under the concept ‘Alive by VachiraPhuket’, the centre combines clinical medical standards with lifestyle-based interventions aimed at reducing the risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
Services include comprehensive health screenings, anti-ageing programmes, cellular health assessments, weight management, and personalised long-term care plans, all supported by specialist medical teams.
The approach places strong emphasis on behavioural changes such as balanced nutrition, regular exercise and stress management ‒ key drivers behind chronic illnesses.
Officials said the centre also aligns with Phuket’s growing reputation as a wellness tourism destination, catering to both residents and international visitors seeking preventative healthcare services.
Hospital administrators expect the facility to play a key role in improving quality of life while reducing long-term healthcare costs.
THALANG BOOST
Later yesterday, Mr Phatthana and his delegation travelled to Thalang Hospital to inspect operations and meet staff.
Welcomed by acting director Sakchai Na Wang-ang, the minister received a briefing on hospital performance before touring key departments, including the Emergency Room, male general ward and dialysis unit.
The minister also visited patients, offering encouragement and presenting gifts, before inspecting infrastructure upgrades such as a central laundry facility currently being expanded into a three-storey building under a budget exceeding B100 million, designed to meet ‘Green and Clean’ standards.
Discussions were also held on plans to elevate Thalang Hospital to an ‘A-Plus’ level medical centre, aimed at enhancing services for both local residents and tourists.
Mr Phatthana concluded his visit by commending village health volunteers for their role in supporting community healthcare, particularly during times of crisis, describing their contributions as vital to Thailand’s public health system.
OIL IMPACT
Before coming to Phuket, Public Health Minister Phatthana Phromphat announced urgent measures to ease the impact of rising oil prices, expanding telemedicine services, safeguarding emergency fuel supplies and ensuring adequate stocks of medicines nationwide.
The Ministry of Public Health said more than 1.37 million patients accessed treatment via telemedicine between October 2025 and Mar 27, 2026, helping save an estimated B274.8mn in travel costs. The programme has been supported by medicine delivery services, with 3.6mn prescriptions distributed via Health Rider and postal systems since January 2024.
Authorities are also coordinating with the Ministry of Energy to secure fuel for ambulances and medical vehicles, with moderate impacts reported in 18 provinces but services continuing as normal, Mr Phatthana said.
Meanwhile, a central ‘War Room’ has been established to monitor medicine and medical supply levels, with current reserves deemed sufficient for between three and 12 months. A nationwide dashboard system is being used to track stock levels, while the Government Pharmaceutical Organization stands ready to procure supplies if shortages arise, Mr Phatthana explained.
In addition, he added, the Department of Mental Health has urged the public to manage stress linked to economic pressures, recommending relaxation techniques, planning and seeking support, with a 24-hour hotline available on 1323.