The partnership between DKSH Thailand and Thammasat University Hospital (TUH) is breathing new life into healthcare delivery by offering convenient homecare services that put patients first. This collaboration not only enhances patient well-being but also tackles the challenge of reducing hospital overcrowding.
TUH, established in 1986, has grown into a leading tertiary hospital over the past 30 years. Currently, it has over 800 beds, serving more than 1.3 million outpatients and over 40,000 inpatients annually.
TUH is on a mission to become a digital hospital by harnessing the power of AI, advanced medical equipment, and sophisticated database management systems.
Challenge
Long wait times and overcrowded hospitals have been persistent issues in the Thai healthcare system. This not only impacts both patients and their caregivers, but inevitably includes other hidden costs that add to the financial burden.
One example of hidden costs is transportation expenses to and from the hospital, which can quickly add up. Additionally, time spent waiting for medical attention may result in the loss of daily income. These financial and logistical hurdles exacerbate the overall strain on individuals seeking medical care, highlighting the urgent need for innovative solutions to improve the efficiency and accessibility of healthcare services in Thailand.
Approach
We are partnering with TUH to introduce Home Pulse, an innovative homecare service that provides at-home specimen collection and safe transportation (of collected specimens) to the hospital for testing.
This service enhances convenience for patients by eliminating the need to arrive at the hospital two to four hours before their appointments for sample collection and testing. Instead, patients can schedule these services from the comfort of their homes, three to five days before their hospital appointments, and experience the comfort and convenience of a streamlined healthcare journey.
The initial coverage is within a 60-kilometer radius of the hospital, with plans to expand nationwide. This initiative aligns perfectly with Thailand’s national agenda to improve healthcare accessibility and efficiency.
Result
Home Pulse has transformed the healthcare landscape. Patients and caregivers now spend less time at the hospital, freeing up resources where healthcare professionals can focus more effectively on complex cases. Additionally, it has lowered the hidden costs associated with transportation and loss of daily income, easing the financial burden on patients.
Most importantly, patients will benefit from a seamless and dedicated patient journey, through improved convenience, improving the overall experience. This initiative has received positive feedback from both patients and healthcare professionals, highlighting its success and impact in transforming healthcare delivery.