Repeated use of donated blood for emergency cases linked to heavy drinking has raised social media concerns over blood shortages. The doctor behind the Facebook page “เรียนหมอ by หมอแกว หมอแนต” criticized the frequent need for blood transfusions in patients who consume alcohol heavily and often return to hospitals with the same complications, straining limited resources.
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These cases often involve liver cirrhosis and gastrointestinal issues, requiring 10 to 20 bags of blood per admission. The doctor noted that despite treatment, 99.99% of these patients continue drinking post-discharge, with a rising number of migrant patients exhibiting similar patterns. As hospitals face ongoing blood shortages, non-emergency patients, including those with thalassaemia and kidney disease, sometimes experience delays reaching critical stages like severe anaemia.
Donated blood is also vital for accident victims, major surgeries, severe childbirth bleeding, cancer patients, and those with blood disorders. While hospitals treat all patients equally, alcohol-related emergencies frequently receive prioritized attention, prompting the doctor's call for policy changes. She suggested introducing co-payments for repeat cases related to alcohol or drug use, potentially encouraging patients to reconsider their lifestyle choices.
In subsequent posts, the doctor anticipated criticism, emphasizing her focus on addressing healthcare burdens rather than professional ethics shortcomings. Staff often face challenges from aggressive relatives, while continuing to provide necessary care. She advocated ending free treatment for repeat cases, citing the unsustainable strain on resources.
Separately, the Phuket Red Cross and the Blood Bank at Vachira Phuket Hospital are urging community blood donations, particularly Rh-negative types, as tourism increases emergency demand. Meanwhile, blood donation communities online express gratitude and commitment toward maintaining healthy donation levels, reported The Thaiger.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Thaiger · 11 Mar 2026