BDMS Wellness Clinic, Thailand’s premier provider of preventive healthcare, has taken a major step forward by unveiling a high-profile collaboration with Bangkok Hospital Phuket and Laguna Phuket. Together, they have launched BDMS Wellness Clinic Laguna Phuket, the latest addition under the BDMS Wellness Clinic brand. This initiative not only aims to elevate wellness tourism but also to solidify the company’s leadership in creating a wellness economic corridor in the Andaman region.
Spearheaded by Tanupol Virunhagarun, M.D., CEO of BDMS Wellness Clinic and BDMS Wellness Resort, Bangkok Dusit Medical Services Public Company Limited, alongside Narintara Boonjongcharoen, M.D., Deputy CEO of BDMS Group 6, and Mr. Ho Kwon Ping, Chairman of Banyan Tree Holdings & Laguna Resorts & Hotels, the initiative embodies a unified vision for the future of wellness tourism in Phuket. The trifecta envisions a thriving wellness destination that attracts global tourists and fuels local economic growth.
The event saw notable attendees such as Mr. Norasak Suksomboon, Vice Governor of Phuket Province; Mr. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, Deputy Governor for International Marketing (Europe, America, Middle East, and Africa) at the Tourism Authority of Thailand; and Dr. Santi Pawai, Chief General Inspector of the Ministry of Tourism & Sports. Their participation underscored the project’s critical importance in boosting Phuket’s global standing as a wellness tourism destination. With the 2022 announcement of the Andaman Wellness Economic Corridor (AWC), focusing on medical tourism across six Andaman provinces, Phuket was rightfully spotlighted as the leading destination. The new BDMS Wellness Clinic branch in Phuket aims to spearhead this movement, in line with Thailand’s goal to become an international medical hub by 2026.
Dr. Tanupol Virunhagarun shared insightful remarks about the burgeoning medical tourism industry in Thailand. “Back in 2019, prior to the global tourism halt caused by the pandemic, Thailand was ranked 7th in the world for its medical tourism market, valued at a staggering 17 billion US dollars, over 610 billion baht. From 2020 to 2022, we witnessed a remarkable recovery in medical tourism, with a growth rate soaring up to 36%. The new clinic in Laguna Phuket stands as a testament to our dedication to molding Phuket into a premier health hub, aligning seamlessly with the newly approved Medical Treatment Visa, valid for one year, designed to meet the healthcare demands of international tourists. Visitors seeking relaxation amidst Phuket’s picturesque scenery can now indulge in world-class preventive healthcare and personalized wellness programs at BDMS Wellness Clinic.”
Echoing this vision, Mr. Ho Kwon Ping highlighted the enormous potential that Phuket holds as a wellness destination. “Our collaboration is set to deliver luxury wellness services that allure global tourists, significantly boosting the local economy. We aspire to make Phuket a flagship global wellness destination by combining top-tier tourism facilities with the innovative wellness programs of BDMS Wellness Clinic,” he enthused.
Adding to this, Dr. Narintara Boonjongcharoen emphasized BDMS’ mission of enhancing preventive and rejuvenating services. “Our priority is to offer the highest quality of preventive and rejuvenating services. The BDMS Wellness Clinic Laguna Phuket will not only serve tourists but will also benefit the local community, providing comprehensive wellness coverage across Phuket and the Andaman region,” she stated.
Strategically, the BDMS Wellness Clinic Laguna Phuket is poised to transform the wellness tourism landscape in Phuket through holistic offerings. From yoga and meditation retreats to traditional Thai healing practices, fitness programs, nutritional counseling, and spa treatments with locally sourced natural ingredients, the clinic promises an immersive wellness experience. Additionally, a strong commitment to sustainability ensures the protection of Phuket’s natural environment and cultural heritage, linking true wellness with environmental health.
The clinic also aims to integrate seamlessly with the local community by fostering economic growth, encouraging cultural exchanges, and contributing to social development. Collaboration with leading experts and organizations will pave the way for innovative wellness programs, setting new industry standards. Furthermore, the clinic will offer workshops, seminars, and retreats to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools for healthier lifestyles, reinforcing its role as an epicenter for wellness education and awareness.
The BDMS Wellness Clinic Laguna Phuket is poised to make a pivotal contribution to health and medical tourism in Thailand. This initiative aims to attract international visitors, stimulate the local economy, and generate job opportunities by positioning Phuket as a comprehensive healthcare center. Services will range from preventive check-ups, vitamin therapy, hormone screening, to facial treatments, blending the essence of traditional Thai hospitality with advanced medical science.
Economically, the collaboration between BDMS Wellness Clinic, Bangkok Hospital Phuket, and Laguna Phuket is anticipated to significantly impact Phuket’s economy by drawing high-spending wellness tourists, creating job opportunities, and promoting sustainable practices that benefit both the local community and the environment.
This is fantastic news! Phuket is already such a beautiful destination, and adding a wellness clinic will make it a top spot for tourists looking for health and relaxation.
I agree, Jane! It’s great to see how they are integrating wellness with tourism. It should be beneficial for both the locals and tourists.
As long as it’s not just another way to exploit local resources. I’ve seen too many projects like this that harm the environment and don’t really help the local communities.
Wellness tourism is indeed growing, Jane, but I worry that the high cost of these services will exclude many potential visitors.
I find it hard to believe that medical tourism can recover so quickly after the pandemic. Are we sure these figures are accurate?
The data does seem surprising, Adam, but Thailand has always been a strong player in the medical tourism industry. With their earlier success, a bounce-back isn’t completely out of the question.
Especially with the new Medical Treatment Visa, which makes it easier for tourists to access these services.
There’s always a bit of marketing fluff in these announcements, Adam. Let’s watch and see how it actually pans out.
Another clinic? Do we really need more medical facilities catering only to the wealthy? What about affordable healthcare for locals?
That’s a valid point, John. The focus should also be on improving local healthcare facilities, not just attracting rich tourists.
But isn’t the idea to boost the economy with wellness tourism, which can then benefit everyone?
Hayden, that’s the hope, but too often the benefits are not evenly distributed.
The article mentions that the clinic will provide benefits for locals too, John. Let’s not dismiss it prematurely.
This is just another example of commercializing healthcare. Wellness should be accessible to all, not just a luxury for the privileged few.
Totally agree, Charlie. The focus on wealthier tourists often means locals get left out.
But if this helps raise the standard of medical care in Phuket, isn’t that a good thing?
Bella, it could be good, but only if the improvements are inclusive and not purely profit-driven.
Accessibility is key. If they only care about profit, it’ll be a missed opportunity.
It’s great to see such a focus on preventive healthcare. More countries should follow Thailand’s lead.
Preventive care is important, but it needs to be part of a broader strategy that includes basic health services.
It’s refreshing to see a focus on wellness rather than just treating illness. Hope it makes a real difference!
So excited for Phuket! This could really put it on the map as a top wellness destination.
Sure, but it raises the question of sustainability. How will this impact the local environment?
And don’t forget the cultural impact. Such developments can be disruptive if not managed carefully.
That’s true, Phil. Proper regulation and community involvement will be key.
Phuket is such a picturesque place, and this initiative seems to combine the best of healthcare and tourism. Can’t wait to visit!
It’s funny how they always talk about economic growth, but what about the rising cost of living for locals because of all these high-end amenities?
The BDMS clinic sounds impressive, but I wonder how many local jobs it will actually create versus importing specialists from abroad.
Yoga retreats and spa treatments sound amazing, but will they be affordable? Wellness is important, but it shouldn’t be just a luxury.