Nakhon Si Thammarat – February 6, 2026 This afternoon, Dr. Kitti Rattanasombat, Acting Director of Walailak University hospital (WUH), and Dr. Tanarak Plipat, Inspector General of the Ministry of Public Health (Health Region 11), presided over the signing ceremony of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The agreement establishes a partnership for practical training and professional experience under the 2014 Regulations for Vocational Training in Traditional Thai Medicine (372-Hour Traditional Thai Medicine Assistant Curriculum). The event was witnessed by Dr. Suttipot Chayanatpong, Nakhon Si Thammarat Provincial Chief Medical Officer, along with directors from various regional hospitals.
Strategic Collaboration for Healthcare Excellence
This MOU represents a strategic collaboration between Walailak University Hospital and the Office of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Health (Nakhon Si Thammarat Provincial Public Health Office). Operating under the Traditional Thai Medicine Profession Act, B.E. 2556 (2013), the partnership aims to enhance the efficiency of knowledge transfer in the field. Licensed Traditional Thai Medicine practitioners from participating hospitals will serve as mentors for trainees.
The initiative includes 11 designated practical training sites across the province:
- Walailak University Medical Center
- Sichon Hospital
- Khanom Hospital
- Ron Phibun Hospital
- Tha Sala Hospital
- Pak Phanang Hospital
- Hua Sai Hospital
- Phra Phrom Hospital
- Prom Kiri Hospital
- Lan Saka Hospital
- Nopphitam Hospital
Addressing Workforce Shortages
Dr. Kitti Rattanasombat stated that WUH recognizes the critical shortage of Traditional Thai Medicine assistants, a role currently in high demand among local healthcare recipients. By launching the 372-hour training program, the center aims to alleviate personnel shortages and expand the scope of traditional medical services to cover the southern region more comprehensively.
Dr. Tanarak Plipat added that this cooperation marks a significant milestone in upgrading the public health system in Southern Thailand.
“This collaboration extends beyond the curriculum; it is a commitment to integrated resource management. Lessons from past crises have taught us that seamless, cross-departmental cooperation is the key to maximizing limited resources. This ensures we are prepared for future health crises and can provide sustainable care for our citizens.”
Moving forward, both organizations will continue to coordinate, support, and evaluate the program’s progress. This joint effort is designed to drive a standardized healthcare system through the science of Traditional Thai Medicine, fostering public confidence and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the nation’s health infrastructure.
