Though the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) promises to allow for the easier flow of goods and capitol throughout Southeast Asia, the trade pact could also have some negative consequences as well, such as draining Thailand’s medical talent toward higher-paying jobs in Singapore or Malaysia.
According to a special report from the National News Bureau of Thailand, Thailand could be at risk for just such a “brain drain” after the formation of the AEC, though Thai policymakers are currently at work trying to ensure that the Kingdom will retain its status as a medical hub.
Medical Council of Thailand President Dr. Somsak Lolekha insists that a wholesale flight of Thailand’s most talented healers is unlikely, seeing as the AEC countries have already signed an agreement insisting that doctors and other specialists have five years’ experience in their home countries before making the leap elsewhere.
Also, Malaysia in particular does not accept Thai medical credentials and therefore is not in a position to pilfer Thai medical talent.
He also said that Thailand could benefit from the change, as specialists from Singapore and Malaysia would then be able to come to the Kingdom and train their Thai colleagues.
Dr. Somsak said that in anticipation of its accession to the AEC, Thailand should pass legislation making it easier for foreign specialists to come train Thai doctors and that the country should press its current specialists to brush up on their knowledge of English.
