Health Officials Investigate Hospital Over Teacher's Husband Death
A teacher's husband died from blocked coronary arteries at a Ratchaburi private hospital in July after doctors allegedly dismissed chest pain as panic disorder and refused an EKG; health officials are now investigating the facility's treatm
A teacher has sought justice after her husband died suddenly on July 16, 2025, at a private hospital in Ban Pong District, Ratchaburi. She alleges that doctors diagnosed him with panic disorder and refused to perform an EKG despite her family's request and willingness to pay, with one doctor allegedly making discouraging remarks. The man went into shock that evening and died in front of his family. An autopsy determined he died from two blocked coronary arteries.
On July 20, 2025, officials from the 5th Health Service Support Center and the Ratchaburi Provincial Public Health Office spent nearly three hours at the hospital gathering evidence and reviewing service standards. Dr. Chakarit Piyapramote, head of the medical department, told media that specific details about treatment and staff conduct cannot be disclosed while the investigation is ongoing. He confirmed the doctor involved remains available and has expressed regret over the incident.
Regarding allegations about the doctor's words in the examination room, Dr. Chakarit noted the incident occurred privately and cannot be verified without the investigation committee's findings. When asked if the doctor had been interviewed, he said discussions had taken place but details cannot be shared during the investigation process.
The hospital maintains it has treatment standards and quality control systems, and acknowledged that mistakes can occur in any hospital. Both the hospital and doctor are prepared to discuss compensation with the family, though the family was not ready to meet when the hospital visited on Saturday. Regarding the patient's chest pain and left arm radiation—signs of a medical emergency—Dr. Chakarit explained the hospital has a chest pain pathway screening system that can admit patients to the emergency room, but he could not explain why this case was handled differently due to the ongoing investigation.
Dr. Chakarit denied plans to sue complainants or members of the public posting opinions, and welcomed all feedback and suggestions. He noted the hospital has served Ban Pong and surrounding areas for over 75 years with a non-profit mission. When asked about part-time doctors over 60 years old on staff, Dr. Chakarit declined to provide that information.
