Hospital Attracts International Patients to Medical Tourism
PUBLISHED : 17 Mar 2025 at 05:26
Vachira Phuket Hospital, a prominent state-run facility in Phuket, is enhancing its focus on medical tourism by attracting international patients specifically seeking weight-loss surgery. This initiative aligns with the increasing demand for effective weight-management solutions.
With over a decade of expertise, Dr. Thakoon Poonthananiwatkul, a senior surgeon at the hospital, reports that Vachira Phuket has successfully performed bariatric surgery on over 3,400 patients.
The hospital’s weight-loss surgery procedures have been accredited by the Surgical Review Corporation (SRC), an esteemed nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting patient safety and excellence in healthcare.
Bariatric surgery offers a viable solution for individuals struggling with severe obesity, particularly when traditional methods like diet and exercise have proven ineffective. The average weight loss post-surgery ranges from 25% to 40% of a patient’s body weight.
Dr. Thakoon emphasizes that sustainable weight loss often hinges on maintaining healthy dietary and exercise habits following the procedure.
Initiating its bariatric surgery program in 2015, Vachira Phuket Hospital has established an excellence center accredited by SRC, significantly bolstering Phuket’s standing in medical and health tourism.
This accreditation serves as a key driver in attracting both Thai nationals and international visitors to Phuket for weight-loss surgeries, thereby contributing to the local economy, according to Dr. Thakoon.
In the past three years, the hospital has conducted between 500 to 700 bariatric surgery cases annually, averaging 40 to 50 procedures each month. The experienced surgical team operates continuously throughout the year.
As part of its strategy to position itself as a premier medical tourism hub in Phuket, the hospital will initially focus on expatriates residing on the island before expanding outreach to a broader audience.
Dr. Veerasak Lorthongkham, the hospital’s director, stated that these advancements underscore the hospital’s dedication to delivering outstanding care and furthering Phuket’s reputation as a top destination for medical tourism.
