Thailand orders inspections of all 1,203 elderly care facilities

The Thai government has ordered a nationwide inspection of all 1,203 registered elderly and dependent-care facilities following reports of confinement and abuse. Public Health Minister Phatthana Phromphat has instructed the Department of Health Service Support, along with 12 regional centers and provincial public health offices, to complete these inspections within two months.

The audits will evaluate facilities based on three primary criteria: premises, safety, and services. Inspectors will ensure that environments are clean and safe, provide suitable access for the elderly, and possess necessary emergency prevention and response systems. Facilities must also demonstrate that staff meet regulatory requirements and that operations remain within the scope of their specific licenses.

Violators of the Health Establishment Act 2016 may face up to six months in prison and fines of up to 50,000 baht. Additionally, facilities found admitting psychiatric patients without the proper medical-facility license may face penalties under the Sanatorium Act 1998, which include up to five years in prison and fines of up to 100,000 baht.