(KPL) The Champassak Provincial Hospital has issued a clarification regarding the transfer of foreign patients to Thailand for medical treatment following a bus accident on the Vientiane-Pakse route.

The accident took place on January 26, 2025, in Nong Sano Village, Lakonpheng District, Saravan Province.

Tragically, one person lost their life in the accident. Medical care was promptly administered to all patients in accordance with medical standards.

Authorities revealed that the patients involved had insurance agreements with partner hospitals in Thailand.

Dr. Kittisavang Sisoulath, Deputy Director of Champassak Provincial Hospital, disclosed in an interview on Monday that the hospital received 30 patients from the accident. Among them were 25 foreign nationals—three in critical condition—and four Lao nationals, including one critically injured.

The decision to transfer the foreign patients to Thailand was based on their pre-arranged travel insurance policies, which included agreements with Thai hospitals. The patients expressed a preference for treatment at these contracted facilities. As a result, the Champassak Provincial Hospital coordinated with partner hospitals in Ubon Ratchathani Province, Thailand, ensuring the transfer of all 25 foreign patients for further medical care.

Regarding the Lao patients, Dr. Kittisavang confirmed that the critically injured individual was also transferred to a hospital in Ubon Ratchathani for specialized treatment. Meanwhile, the remaining three Lao patients received treatment at Champassak Provincial Hospital. These three individuals have shown significant improvement and are expected to return home soon.

The hospital’s prompt response and coordination with Thai medical facilities highlight the significance of cross-border healthcare agreements and the crucial role of travel insurance in ensuring effective medical care for international travellers during emergencies.

KPL