The donation will cover the purchase of 40 sets of Automated External Defibrillator (AED) pads, vital tools used in the treatment of sudden cardiac arrest. The hospital said the move supports a Rotary Club of Patong Beach initiative that has already helped save four lives since it began.
Phuket’s public EMS teams are responsible for responding to emergencies across a challenging island landscape while serving a population that swells with over 8 million visitors each year. But many units struggle with limited budgets and outdated or depleted supplies ‒ including AED pads, which are designed for single use and are often in short supply.
“This contribution directly supports the front-line teams who save lives every day, ensuring they’re better equipped when every second counts,” said Mr. David Boucher, CEO of Bumrungrad International Hospital Phuket.
The Rotary-led project was sparked by a presentation from Jeff Craig, a 30-year licensed EMT and long-time Phuket golf professional, who alerted members to the urgent need for new AED pads.
He estimated that Phuket sees nearly 500 cardiac arrest cases annually, while many of the island’s 24 EMS units lack the resources to maintain their life-saving equipment.
In response, the Rotary Club of Patong Beach also committed B100,000 to the initiative, with Bumrungrad joining shortly afterward to match the support.
“At Bumrungrad, we believe in equitable, timely care for all—residents and visitors alike,” Mr Boucher said. “We’re proud to support this vital initiative and to stand with our community in strengthening emergency healthcare on Phuket.”
The hospital said it remains committed to being a long-term healthcare partner in the region, investing in improved emergency systems and better health outcomes for all.