The Cabinet meeting approved the Prince of Songkla University’s “Andaman Health Center” project with a budget of 6.431 billion baht to elevate Phuket and the Andaman region into a future health city.
On 28 April 2026 GMT+7, Ms. Lalida Pertvivattana, Deputy Spokesperson of the Prime Minister’s Office, announced that the Cabinet approved the Andaman Health Center project by Prince of Songkla University with a total budget of 6,431.74 million baht. The project will be implemented over four years, from fiscal years 2027 to 2030, aiming to upgrade healthcare services in Phuket province and the Andaman provincial cluster.
The project’s main goal is to address the shortage of medical and public health personnel, reduce the burden of referring patients with complex illnesses to other areas, and enhance medical service capacity for residents and tourists in the Andaman region, which is one of the country's strategic areas.
The project consists of five main activities: the Andaman Health College; Songklanagarind Thai Traditional Medicine Hospital Phuket; Songklanagarind Medical Technology Service Center Phuket; Songklanagarind Digital Dentistry Center Phuket; and Songklanagarind Hospital Phuket. The hospital will be a tertiary specialized facility supporting treatment for complex diseases, precision medicine, telemedicine, and health science personnel training.
For Songklanagarind Hospital Phuket, construction of the hospital building will cost 4,845.14 million baht, with 2,907.09 million baht from the budget and 1,938.06 million baht from off-budget sources. Medical equipment and devices will also be procured. The hospital is expected to open in 2030.
Ms. Lalida said this project will elevate Phuket and the Andaman provinces as a regional health hub, increase opportunities for residents to access quality medical services near their homes, reduce healthcare inequalities, and build confidence among residents, investors, and tourists.
“This is not just about building a hospital but laying the foundation for the health system across the entire Andaman region, including personnel, technology, research, and medical services that meet international standards.”