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.
This is a beautiful initiative. Phra Ajarn Sanprach Panyakamo is doing wonderful work.
While it’s nice, isn’t it the government’s job to provide this care? Depending on donations is not sustainable.
True, but our governments often fall short. This grassroots effort is admirable in filling the gap.
Plus, the spiritual aspect adds a unique dimension that government facilities may not offer.
Does anyone else find it ironic that a health sanctuary can’t get financial support from the health authority?
Absolutely! It’s bureaucratic nonsense! They should prioritize places that genuinely help people.
I’m deeply moved by the compassion of these monks. This is true humanity.
I agree. We need more places like this around the world.
Definitely, Roberto. We’re lucky to have such sanctuaries, even if they are few and far between.
But should religious institutions always be the answer? What about secular solutions?
Religious or secular, it doesn’t matter as long as people are being cared for.
The NHSO’s refusal to fund this is outrageous. They should be supporting such essential services.
Maybe they fear setting a precedent for other non-medical facilities. It’s complicated.
Even so, some flexibility could save lives and money. Isn’t that worth it?
Why should my tax dollars go to religious centers? They should fund themselves!
Balancing medical care with spiritual support could be a game-changer.
I just hope this isn’t an excuse to neglect proper medical care.
This inspires me to volunteer. We should all try to contribute in some way.
It’s a shame that the center struggles financially while doing such important work.
Very true, Susan. It says a lot about where our priorities lie as a society.
As a doctor, I find the combination of spiritual and medical care fascinating.
The holistic approach should be more common in Western medicine.
Agreed! We could learn a lot from this model.
I don’t see why the NHSO can’t spare some funds. It’s clearly beneficial.
Budget constraints and legal hurdles probably. It’s not always about not wanting to help.
Religion and healthcare should be separate. What happens when there’s a conflict?
As long as the care is humane and ethical, does it matter?
The fact that this care is free is incredible. How can we help sustain this?
Giving to such a cause can bring so much good. Imagine if everyone donated even a little.
I’ve visited Wat Pa Noen Sa-Ard, and their dedication is truly unmatched.
More awareness can lead to more donations. Let’s spread the word!
How to donate?