Deputy Minister of Interior Polpee opened two dialysis units in Nakhon Ratchasima Province, continuing his persistent efforts since serving as a Member of Parliament to reduce the burden on chronic kidney disease patients and promote healthcare close to people's homes.
On 7 June 2026, Mr. Polpee Suwanchawi, Deputy Minister of Interior, presided over the opening ceremony of dialysis services with artificial kidney machines at Chakkarat Hospital in Chakkarat District and Huai Thalaeng Hospital in Huai Thalaeng District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province. The initiative aims to improve access to public health services and reduce the financial burden on chronic kidney disease patients in the area. The ceremony was attended by Mr. Anupong Suksamanit, Governor of Nakhon Ratchasima Province; Mr. Wichit Kitwirat and Mr. Ballang Waithsiri, Deputy Governors; Dr. Wichan Kidhen, Provincial Public Health Doctor; heads of government departments, medical personnel, and local residents.
Mr. Polpee said the project has been a continuous effort since his time as a Member of Parliament. After regularly visiting elderly people, bedridden patients, and community residents, he became aware of the difficulties faced by kidney patients and their families who had to travel frequently to receive dialysis in downtown Nakhon Ratchasima several times a week.
"Many families have to spend several thousand baht per trip and spend at least an hour traveling to receive services at Maharaj Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital. Having dialysis units close to home will help reduce expenses, travel time, and health risks caused by fatigue from traveling and waiting for services," he said.
The Deputy Minister of Interior emphasized that expanding public health services to reach people in every area, especially chronic patients and the elderly, is a vital government mission to enhance the quality of life and ensure equal access to healthcare.
Dr. Wichan stated that establishing dialysis units with artificial kidney machines at both locations aims to increase access to medical services for chronic kidney patients in Chakkarat District, Huai Thalaeng District, and nearby areas. Previously, many patients had to travel over 30-40 kilometers to receive treatment in Nakhon Ratchasima city district, causing burdens related to cost, time, and travel difficulties.
Chakkarat Hospital offers dialysis services with 12 artificial kidney machines, while Huai Thalaeng Hospital provides 12 machines, totaling 24 units. This helps patients access services more conveniently, quickly, and efficiently, in line with the policy “Free Dialysis to Reduce People's Burden,” which aims to improve quality of life and promote equality in public health service access.
