Sakon nakhon: The Sakon Nakhon Provincial Administrative Organization has taken immediate action by transferring a sub-district health center director, following an incident where he was found drinking beer while drawing blood from an 83-year-old patient. A committee has been established to investigate the incident and consider disciplinary measures.
According to Thai News Agency, images have surfaced online showing a public health official in a green shirt, wearing glasses and a hat, consuming beer while conducting medical procedures, including drawing blood and measuring blood pressure, on an elderly grandmother in Warichaphum District, Sakon Nakhon Province. The incident has ignited widespread criticism due to its inappropriate nature.
The individual in question was identified as the director of a sub-district health center. Reports indicate he visited the patient's home to provide medical services but was visibly intoxicated. When confronted by the patient's relatives, he reportedly became defensive and mentioned his usual charge of 1,000 baht per hour, suggesting they visit a hospital if dissatisfied with his services.
A visit by the news team to the grandmother's residence revealed further details. The director, approximately 51 years old, attempted to draw blood multiple times, resulting in the grandmother's hand becoming swollen and bruised. His agitated response to questioning about his conduct included leaving behind the beer can he had been drinking from.
Mr. Kitthana Tharakittirat, the Permanent Secretary of the Sakon Nakhon Provincial Administrative Organization, confirmed that the executives are fully aware of the situation and have initiated an investigation since June 16th to ensure fair treatment for all involved parties.
The initial phase of the investigation was assigned to the Director of Public Health and the chairperson of the sub-district health center network. Subsequently, an order was issued for the temporary transfer of the health center director to another location, and a committee has been set up to pursue disciplinary actions.