Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2009. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
Bangkok Post - September 26, 2009
Achara Ashayagachat
Solemn mourning for the inmate proceeded as 30 terminally ill patients were being provided with their medication.
The institute says four to five patient inmates die each month. Most have Aids, but there are also those suffering from cancer and other illnesses.
Vuttinone Promnil, head of the ward for treatment of final-stage Aids patients, said the hospital struggles with red tape and the negative perceptions of the public toward infected patients.
Helping relieve the enormous workload at the facility are welfare organisations such as the Church of Christ and Siam Care whose volunteers provide a helping hand.
The volunteers provide emotional counselling to the inmates who are often stressed by their illnesses.
The volunteers help put together spiritual peace programmes to prepare the inmates for the final part of their lives.
Legal amendments are being proposed to suspend or reduce inmates' sentences so they can return home and spend time with their loved ones before they pass on, said Mr Vuttinone.
Nakhon Chomphuchat, the justice minister's adviser on Rights Protection for Criminal Cases, said the law provides leeway for inmates or their relatives to appeal for parole or a pardon through the Corrections Department.
Mr Vuttinone stressed the necessity of collaborating with his co-workers - doctors, nurses, social workers and psychologists - in delivering treatment and seeing to it that the inmates are cared for in a manner that respects their dignity and caters to their spiritual needs.
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