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Phra Ajarn Sanprach Panyakamo’s Palliative Care: A Compassionate Sanctuary in Nakhon Ratchasima

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Phra Ajarn Sanprach Panyakamo with a terminally ill patient

Phra Ajarn Sanprach Panyakamo, the revered abbot of Wat Pa Noen Sa-Ard in Nakhon Ratchasima, is no stranger to bringing peace to those at the end of their life journey. Recently, he sat with a blind woman in her final stage of life. She expressed heartfelt gratitude to him for guiding her towards a peaceful transition from this world.

Nestled in the Chok Chai district of Nakhon Ratchasima, Wat Pa Noen Sa-Ard has earned a reputation as a sanctuary for terminally ill patients who do not require aggressive medical interventions. Here, the monks offer more than just spiritual solace; they provide palliative care, helping patients find tranquility and comfort in their last days. Through the compassionate teachings of Buddhism, they ensure these individuals can spend their final moments in peace.

This noble practice aligns seamlessly with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) goal to enhance the quality of life for patients, easing both their physical and emotional suffering. It’s also in line with Section 12 of the National Health Act, which supports the ethical right of terminal-stage patients to refuse medical treatment if they wish.

Phra Ajarn Sanprach, who spearheads this unique hospice care center, believes that the ultimate aim is to help patients achieve a “good death” through mindfulness. Under the guidance of Buddhist principles, being mindful, restrained, fearless, and persevering can significantly alleviate pain and promote well-being. Particularly at the moment of their last breath, mindfulness is believed to bring peace, allowing individuals to transition with grace and tranquility.

The principles embraced at Wat Pa Noen Sa-Ard resonate with the holistic approach of modern medicine, which also emphasizes physical, mental, social, and spiritual well-being. This sanctuary has even earned certification from the Department of Health as a legitimate public healthcare facility providing palliative care.

The temple’s monks and nuns, along with dedicated medical staff and volunteers from the province, tirelessly care for approximately 50 patients, many of whom are impoverished. Importantly, this care comes at no cost to the patients or their families. However, while the Department of Health has recognized the facility, the Office of National Health Security (NHSO) has denied it financial support, withholding the 10,000 baht per case per year it otherwise provides.

According to Phra Ajarn Sanprach, the center’s operational costs amount to a hefty 500,000 baht each month, a sum painstakingly covered by generous donations. The strict criteria set by the Health Department make it extremely challenging for the center to qualify for state financial assistance. As he poignantly explained, “We are not medical staff but monks who render help based on Buddhist practices,” urging the NHSO to show more flexibility.

Thanks to the relentless efforts of Wat Pa Noen Sa-Ard, the burden on local hospitals has significantly reduced. Dr. Kriengsak Kruthakool, the director of Chok Chai Hospital, noted the positive impact during a media briefing. The Health Ministry aims to alleviate the high costs associated with last-stage patients on life-support machines by ensuring that each province has at least one public palliative care facility.

Dr Kriengsak highlighted the growing number of impoverished patients abandoned by their families, which has become a substantial physical and financial strain on hospitals. Wat Pa Noen Sa-Ard’s intervention has been a lifeline, taking these patients under its compassionate care and easing the hospital’s load.

The WHO estimates that each year, around 56.8 million people require palliative care, a number projected to rise as populations age and diseases continue to increase. Wat Pa Noen Sa-Ard stands out as a beacon of hope and compassion in this growing global need, demonstrating that humane and mindful care can make a world of difference in the twilight of life.

32 Comments

  1. Samantha T. September 13, 2024

    This is a beautiful initiative. Phra Ajarn Sanprach Panyakamo is doing wonderful work.

    • John D September 13, 2024

      While it’s nice, isn’t it the government’s job to provide this care? Depending on donations is not sustainable.

      • Oliver September 13, 2024

        True, but our governments often fall short. This grassroots effort is admirable in filling the gap.

      • Mandy September 13, 2024

        Plus, the spiritual aspect adds a unique dimension that government facilities may not offer.

    • Chris P September 13, 2024

      Does anyone else find it ironic that a health sanctuary can’t get financial support from the health authority?

      • Lara K. September 13, 2024

        Absolutely! It’s bureaucratic nonsense! They should prioritize places that genuinely help people.

  2. Jane Lewis September 13, 2024

    I’m deeply moved by the compassion of these monks. This is true humanity.

    • Roberto September 13, 2024

      I agree. We need more places like this around the world.

      • Jane Lewis September 13, 2024

        Definitely, Roberto. We’re lucky to have such sanctuaries, even if they are few and far between.

    • Tom September 13, 2024

      But should religious institutions always be the answer? What about secular solutions?

      • Sarah21 September 13, 2024

        Religious or secular, it doesn’t matter as long as people are being cared for.

  3. Paul M. September 13, 2024

    The NHSO’s refusal to fund this is outrageous. They should be supporting such essential services.

    • Emily September 13, 2024

      Maybe they fear setting a precedent for other non-medical facilities. It’s complicated.

      • Paul M. September 13, 2024

        Even so, some flexibility could save lives and money. Isn’t that worth it?

  4. grower134 September 13, 2024

    Why should my tax dollars go to religious centers? They should fund themselves!

  5. Hannah R. September 13, 2024

    Balancing medical care with spiritual support could be a game-changer.

    • Mike September 13, 2024

      I just hope this isn’t an excuse to neglect proper medical care.

  6. Alexandra September 14, 2024

    This inspires me to volunteer. We should all try to contribute in some way.

  7. Susan Morgan September 14, 2024

    It’s a shame that the center struggles financially while doing such important work.

    • Leo September 14, 2024

      Very true, Susan. It says a lot about where our priorities lie as a society.

  8. Danny September 14, 2024

    As a doctor, I find the combination of spiritual and medical care fascinating.

    • Annabel September 14, 2024

      The holistic approach should be more common in Western medicine.

    • Danny September 14, 2024

      Agreed! We could learn a lot from this model.

  9. BryceT September 14, 2024

    I don’t see why the NHSO can’t spare some funds. It’s clearly beneficial.

    • Kathy September 14, 2024

      Budget constraints and legal hurdles probably. It’s not always about not wanting to help.

  10. Jimmy September 14, 2024

    Religion and healthcare should be separate. What happens when there’s a conflict?

    • Ann L September 14, 2024

      As long as the care is humane and ethical, does it matter?

  11. Sammy September 14, 2024

    The fact that this care is free is incredible. How can we help sustain this?

  12. Jessica September 14, 2024

    Giving to such a cause can bring so much good. Imagine if everyone donated even a little.

  13. Charlie V. September 14, 2024

    I’ve visited Wat Pa Noen Sa-Ard, and their dedication is truly unmatched.

  14. HappyMe September 14, 2024

    More awareness can lead to more donations. Let’s spread the word!

  15. Tan Sei Ming September 14, 2024

    How to donate?

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