Bangkok, Thailand – MedPark Hospital has launched the second phase of its cardiac arrhythmia screening program, aiming to protect the health of doctors who often neglect their own well-being due to heavy workloads and stress.
The screening initiative, which began on Tuesday at MedPark Hospital in Bangkok’s Khlong Toei district, targets the early detection of cardiac arrhythmia—an irregular heartbeat that can lead to severe conditions such as coronary artery disease and cardiac arrest. Common symptoms include palpitations and dizziness, which can worsen without timely medical attention.
Professor Dr. Sinn Anuras, director and CEO of MedPark Hospital, said the program was created after hospital data showed that many doctors face high levels of stress and lack time for regular health checkups.
“We want to protect doctors from cardiac arrhythmia and help them stay healthy,” Dr. Sinn said. “We hope this initiative becomes a source of support for doctors across the country.”
Dr. Pongpat Patanavanich, managing director of the hospital, said the campaign highlights MedPark’s dedication to public health and to the professionals who serve on its frontlines. He noted that the Covid-19 pandemic emphasized the critical role of doctors in society.
According to Dr. Pongpat, approximately 100,000 doctors in Thailand are at risk of developing cardiac arrhythmia. In the past five years, 300 to 400 physicians have died from heart-related conditions, including sudden cardiac arrest.
“To save one doctor is to save 10,000 lives,” he said, emphasizing the program’s broader impact. He added that MedPark Hospital has a team of electrophysiologists who specialize in diagnosing and treating arrhythmias.
The initiative, called “Save Doctors’ Hearts,” was first introduced in 2022. In its first phase, 1,236 doctors underwent screening. Among them, 30% showed signs of heart abnormalities. Currently, 10 of those doctors are receiving further treatment, including procedures such as coronary angiogram (CAG) and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).
In the newly launched second phase, doctors experiencing early symptoms like palpitations or dizziness are eligible for free screening. They will also receive guidance from a specialized medical team led by Dr. Krit Jongnarangsin, an electrophysiologist from the University of Michigan.
Doctors who are diagnosed with more serious conditions can receive continued care at MedPark Hospital, at its partner facilities, or at other hospitals covered by their health insurance.
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