Social Security Office Enhances Hospital Inspections After Tragic Heart Failure Case in Thailand

In a steadfast effort to safeguard the welfare of its insured citizens, the Social Security Office has made its dedication to rigorous inspections of medical facilities unambiguous. Their goal? To bolster the quality of life for individuals under the social security umbrella. On March 4, a significant address was delivered by Niyada Saneemanomai, a government spokesperson, shedding light on a tragic case that underscores the importance of these inspections. An insured patient tragically succumbed to heart failure after receiving treatment at a hospital within the social security network. Initially, the patient was examined, given medication, and sent on their way, only to return the next day with deteriorated health and subsequently pass away.

The individual in question was a Sec. 33 insured employee, as Niyada explained. An initial inquiry into the unfortunate series of events revealed that the patient had initially arrived at the hospital on February 27 at precisely 7:53 PM. The emergency room doctor, in response, conducted an ECG and blood test, prescribed necessary medication, and advised the patient to rest at home. However, the patient’s condition took a concerning turn, and they returned at 5:12 AM the following morning. The emergency doctor, upon further examination, recommended hospitalization. Yet, during the transfer to the inpatient ward, complications arose. The internal medicine doctor requested an additional abdominal X-ray while the patient, in transit to the X-ray room, slipped into unconsciousness and experienced severe symptoms. Despite the hospital’s desperate attempts to resuscitate him in the emergency room, the efforts were in vain.

While the hospital suggested an autopsy to precisely determine the cause of death, the bereaved family opted out. Therefore, the cause of death was recorded as acute heart failure. Niyada fervently elaborated that Marasri Jairangsi, the Secretary General of the Social Security Office, had issued directives for an expedited and thorough investigation. The aim is to ensure fairness across all parties involved. The hospital, facing scrutiny, is mandated to provide comprehensive medical records to a panel composed of medical advisors and a subcommittee experienced in handling medical service complaints. This group, a blend of medical experts, insured representatives, and interdisciplinary professionals, is tasked with meticulously assessing the situation. Should any lapse or oversight in care be identified, the Social Security Office is prepared to take corrective action in alignment with the Social Security Act of 1990.

In addition, the Secretary General has charged provincial social security offices with the responsibility of engaging directly with the bereaved family, providing necessary support, and elucidating the social security fund benefits available to them. This includes the potential for preliminary financial assistance to alleviate damages incurred from medical procedures, as reported by KhaoSod.

The Social Security Office’s vigilant endeavor to enhance healthcare services is a heartfelt promise. While this tragic incident stands as a somber reminder of the stakes involved, it also highlights the organization’s unwavering commitment to refining and holding accountable the systems in place to protect and serve its insured populace.