Thailand Invests in Invasive Cardiology: The TCIS/SICP Joint Review for Thai Professionals

In an effort to provide accessible, high-quality cardiovascular care to the rural areas of Thailand, the Thai Ministry of Public Health (MPOH)* is building cardiovascular centers in these underserved areas. The new centers will be attached to existing healthcare facilities and will include a cardiac catheterization laboratory, a cardiothoracic surgical suite, and coronary care unit. Each interested hospital must submit their plan, similar to the U.S. certificate of need, and two rural hospitals have already submitted successful proposals. Recognizing the need for trained staff, the Thai MOPH approached the leadership of the Thai Cardiovascular Invasive Society, asking for their help in developing and providing training for the staff of the new cardiac catheterization laboratories. TCIS, in collaboration with the SICP, developed the curriculum for a basic, 3-day course, called Catheterization 2004, which was followed by an advanced, two-day course (the TCIS/SICP Joint Review Course). Members from both societies, as well as esteemed members from the invasive cardiovascular field, were invited to speak at both courses. The Thai MOPH sponsored staff from the new centers to attend the Basic Course and most continued on to attend the Advanced Course as well. The new staff were also assigned to a mentor hospital with whom they will work for a period of six months. Once again, the Thai Cardiovascular Invasive Society has planned and delivered an excellent scientific meeting with renowned speakers from around the world. Talks were delivered in English and Thai. Staff cardiologists provided real-time translation of the English talks via wireless headsets. Breakout sessions were held during the lunch periods. This meant long days but, additional topics and of course, additional CEUs. Attendees’ reviews were overwhelmingly enthusiastic. Hosting a meeting for five days requires significant support. The clinical and support staff at Bhumibol Adulyadej Hospital are to be commended for their dedication in providing the support required to make a these meetings a success. *Under the direction of Dr. Chardsri Prachuabmoh, President, Sub-committee for Investment and Medical Development in Tertiary Centers.

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