The Thai government is sending 72.3 million baht to Phuket, as part of an overall budget of 1.4 billion baht, to create the long-discussed medical tourism hub on the island. The budget was approved by Cabinet on March 1 last year, according to a Bangkok Post report.
Dr Opas Karnkawinpong from the Public Health Ministry says the Thai PM, Prayut Chan-o-cha, recently approved issuing the disbursement from the government’s contingency fund. The initial outlay will go towards buying land and buildings for the project. Initial proposals have the site in the north end of the island.
A medical plaza, premium long-term care centre, hospice heart disease treatment centre, and medical rehabilitation centre will make up the four main facilities in the blueprint, according to Dr. Opas.
The first phase of the project, including a feasibility study and preparations for construction, is expected to conclude by the end of this year. To establish the required infrastructure, Opas says an estimated budget of 231 million baht has been allocated.
The construction of the four medical and healthcare centres will require approximately one billion baht, and the funding will be determined based on the results of the ongoing feasibility study.
According to Dr. Opas, work on the four facilities is set to begin in 2025 and be completed in 2026. It has yet to be determined whether the government will invest the money or if this will be done by a private company via a concession arrangement.
Medical Hub in Phuket
SOURCE: Bangkok Post
