Monks provide compassionate care and spiritual guidance to support patients in their final days.
Wat Pa Noen Sa-Ard, a renowned Buddhist temple located in Nakhon Ratchasima’s Chok Chai district, has emerged as a sanctuary for terminally ill individuals who seek solace without invasive medical interventions.
Monks at the temple offer palliative care that focuses on restoring spiritual peace while imparting Buddhist teachings, allowing patients to find tranquility in their last moments.
This initiative aligns with the World Health Organization’s mission to enhance the quality of life for patients and alleviate their physical and emotional suffering.
It also reflects Section 12 of the National Health Act, which upholds the ethical right of terminally ill patients to decline aggressive medical treatment.
Phra Ajarn Sanprach Panyakamo, president of the Buddhist hospice care center, emphasized the importance of achieving a “good death” through mindfulness practices.
According to Buddhist principles, being mindful and fearless can significantly ease suffering and restore well-being.
It is believed that embracing one’s final moments with mindfulness leads to a peaceful departure from the world.
The temple’s approach aligns with modern medicine’s holistic focus on physical, mental, social, and spiritual health.
Wat Pa Noen Sa-Ard has received certification from the Department of Health as a public healthcare facility dedicated to palliative care.
Currently, monks, nuns, and volunteers care for 50 low-income patients at the facility, providing this essential service free of charge.
Despite its certification, the temple has been denied annual financial support from the Office of National Health Security for each patient case.
Phra Ajarn Sanprach noted that the center incurs management costs of 500,000 baht monthly, relying solely on donations for funding.
He called for greater flexibility from the NHSO in providing financial assistance, acknowledging their role as caregivers guided by Buddhist philosophies rather than traditional medical practitioners.
As a result of their efforts, the workload at nearby hospitals has significantly decreased.
Dr. Kriengsak Kruthakool, director of Chok Chai Hospital, stated that the Health Ministry aims to lower medical expenses for terminal patients on life support by establishing at least one public palliative care facility in each province.
During a recent press event, Dr. Kriengsak highlighted the strain caused by the growing number of neglected patients in hospitals, noting that Wat Pa Noen Sa-Ard has alleviated this burden significantly.
According to WHO estimates, around 56.8 million individuals require palliative care annually, a figure expected to rise as populations age and health issues become more prevalent.
