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

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.