Bangkok: The Medical Council has reaffirmed its decision to take legal action against three doctors involved in the case of sending "Thaksin" to be treated on the 14th floor of the Police General Hospital. The decision came after a 2/3 majority vote during a five-hour meeting. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Prasit Watanapa, Vice President of the Medical Council, disclosed the outcome of the meeting, which saw 68 out of 69 eligible members in attendance.
According to Thai News Agency, the meeting was convened to consider a letter requesting a veto of the original resolution to sanction the doctors for alleged unethical conduct. The Special President's veto was overridden by a vote exceeding 2/3 of the total members, reaffirming the Medical Council Committee's initial decision from May 8, 2568. The Medical Council is expected to issue an enforcement order shortly, which will become effective once communicated to the implicated doctors. Should the doctors disagree with the decision, they have the option to file a petition with the Administrative Court to review the order.
In response to rumors about a leaked Line chat, Dr. Prasit clarified that the group in question is not officially affiliated with the Medical Council. The messages and responses within it do not represent official opinions. He emphasized that the Council's decisions are based on principles and academic standards, unaffected by external influences or the identity of the patient involved.
The Council's determination is supported by over 50,000 individuals who have expressed their endorsement of upholding professional ethics. Moving forward, the Medical Council plans to evaluate the roles of other doctors involved in the treatment of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.
When questioned on the potential impact of this decision on new doctors, Dr. Prasit reassured that all doctors, regardless of experience, are trained to adhere to professional ethics and standards. He believes this case will serve as a valuable lesson, emphasizing that a doctor's role extends beyond patient care to include maintaining high standards of professional conduct.