On 1 September 2026, Walailak University Hospital officially opened the Walailak Retina and Ocular Imaging Center (WRiC), a specialized center established to strengthen the diagnosis and treatment of retinal and eye diseases, particularly for patients with complex conditions who require timely and advanced care.
The opening ceremony was presided over by Dr. Kitti Rattanasombat, Acting Director of Walailak University Hospital, and attended by Asst.Prof. Jakkrit Juhong, Head of WRiC, Asst.Prof. Lunla Udomwech, Head of the Department of Ophthalmology, hospital executives, physicians, nurses, and staff. The event took place on the first floor of Building D.
Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Kitti Rattanasombat emphasized the importance of improving access to specialized eye care for patients in the region.
“This center allows patients to receive comprehensive diagnosis and treatment closer to home. Many retinal and eye conditions require prompt intervention to achieve the best outcomes. By providing these services locally, we can reduce the need for long–distance travel while enhancing the quality of care in line with our role as a tertiary–care hospital serving the region,“ Dr. Kitti said.
According to Asst.Prof. Jakkrit Juhong, WRiC is designed to provide comprehensive care for patients with retinal and eye diseases, covering diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The center is equipped to perform advanced specialized procedures, including Fluorescein Angiography (FA), Indocyanine Green Angiography (ICGA), and Electroretinography (ERG), as well as other advanced ophthalmic imaging technologies. These services support ophthalmologists in making more accurate diagnoses and treatment decisions.
The establishment of WRiC aims to reduce the need for patients to be referred to hospitals outside the province, strengthen the hospital’s capability in managing complex retinal and eye diseases, and support collaboration within the regional referral network to improve access to specialized care.
Beyond clinical services, WRiC also promotes the integration of patient care, education, and research. The center supports innovative ophthalmology research, including the development of placental membrane hydrogel for the treatment of retinal and ocular diseases, helping translate research findings into practical clinical applications that benefit patients.
The opening of Walailak Retina and Ocular Imaging Center (WRiC) marks another important milestone for Walailak University Hospital in advancing specialized eye care services and strengthening the integration of healthcare, education, and research. Through this initiative, the hospital aims to provide more efficient, accessible, and high-quality care for patients in the province and across the region.
