Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand – July 31, 2025 — A major hospital in northeastern Thailand has reversed its decision to suspend medical services for Cambodian nationals, following public scrutiny and concerns over adherence to medical ethics.
Sunpasitthiprasong Hospital, located in Ubon Ratchathani province near the Thai-Cambodian border, had initially announced a temporary halt in services for new Cambodian patients, citing tensions in the border region. The internal directive, issued on July 30, also included the suspension of Cambodian-language interpretation services and restrictions on patient movement within the facility. The policy was set to take effect from July 31 until August 10.
However, the hospital issued a revised statement the next day, clarifying that it will continue to treat Cambodian patients on humanitarian grounds. Ongoing treatment for current inpatients will proceed with appropriate safety protocols, while emergency cases involving new Cambodian patients will be admitted as needed.
The hospital has also suspended proxy collection of medications for cross-border delivery, noting a growing backlog as a result of logistical constraints. Additionally, certain non-urgent services have been scaled back, including the postponement of elective surgeries and the temporary suspension of evening specialist clinics under the SMC Premium program.
Hospital administrators explained that these measures are part of an internal adjustment to service delivery during a period of regional instability. While Cambodian interpretation services remain suspended, officials cited a decline in demand as the reason.
The hospital emphasized that the initial announcement had been misinterpreted and reaffirmed its commitment to patient safety for all individuals, regardless of nationality. Details about the hospital’s leadership and those involved in the earlier decision were provided at the end of the hospital’s statement.
