According to the National News Bureau of Thailand, Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra has instructed the Public Health Ministry to admit all accident patients to Thailand’s hospitals during the Songkran period, regardless whether or not they fall under the country’s state-run health insurance plan.
The number of accidents within Thailand typically doubles during the Songkran period, straining the capacities of the nation’s hospitals. Accidents resulting from drunk driving form the majority of this burden.
Deputy Public Health Minister Dr. Chonlanan Srikaew said that hospitals are ready to accommodate this year’s Songkran merrymakers, even with a large percentage of their medical personnel out on holiday leave.
Accident victims are encouraged to call Thailand’s medical hotline at 1669.
