BANGKOK, Thailand – The Medical Council of Thailand has launched an investigation into a private clinic in Bo Win district, Chonburi, after a 3-year-old boy was severely burned on his chest during treatment involving hot water. Authorities are coordinating with the Chonburi Provincial Public Health Office and the Department of Health Service Support (HSS) to verify the facts and ensure ethical medical standards are upheld.
Following an initial inspection, the clinic was temporarily closed after the provincial public health office found violations of healthcare facility standards under the Private Health Care Facilities Act. The council is examining whether the healthcare provider involved was a licensed physician and whether proper registration and procedures were followed at the time of treatment.
Air Chief Marshal Dr. Itthaporn Kanajareon, Secretary-General of the Medical Council, stated that if the practitioner is confirmed as a licensed doctor, the council will review whether the treatment method complied with medical standards and ethics. The use of hot water in treatment is unusual, and authorities plan to question the doctor on the rationale and guidelines used.
The investigation will also assess the severity of the harm caused. Depending on the findings, a council committee may impose disciplinary actions ranging from a warning or probation to suspension or revocation of the medical license.
Dr. Itthaporn emphasized that the public can verify physicians online through the Medical Council website, checking names, specialties, and photos to confirm the legitimacy of the doctor they consult. Any discrepancies can be reported to the council for legal action.
