Phetchaboon Hospital Raises 2 Million Baht in One Night After Mold Photos Go Viral
Phetchaboon Hospital raised over 2.2 million baht in donations after viral photos exposed mold in patient wards, as the facility battles a massive budget deficit while undergoing major renovations.
Phetchaboon Hospital raised 2,276,646.64 baht in donations between September 12-13 after photographs of mold covering ward ceilings spread widely on social media with the hashtag "Save Phetchaboon Hospital." Hospital director Dr. Kobchai Jirchanchay apologized and disclosed that the hospital faced a 170 million baht deficit at the start of the fiscal year, which he had reduced to 26 million baht by the end of August through operational improvements. The mold resulted from humidity trapped between floors due to air conditioning on the fourth floor while the third floor lacked cooling, combined with heavy monsoon rains accelerating fungal growth.
The hospital is undergoing major renovation work, with several aging buildings scheduled for demolition and reconstruction following earthquake damage. Patient wards and treatment facilities have been relocated to other buildings to maintain service continuity during the construction period. Hospital management used both the hospital's reserve fund and partial government budget allocations for these renovations. Following the public disclosure of the hospital's financial crisis, donations poured in from individuals contributing amounts ranging from small sums to tens of thousands of baht.
Those wishing to donate can transfer funds directly to the hospital or to Krung Thai Bank account 614-0-76611-7 under "Phetchaboon Hospital Donation Fund," which qualifies for double tax deduction. The hospital has issued a warning to verify the account number carefully, as only one official account exists. For inquiries, contact the hospital at 056-717600.
