Widespread Impact on Healthcare
Hospitals Face Evacuation Orders
Cambodian artillery attacks along the Thai-Cambodian border have disrupted operations at 19 Thai hospitals, prompting health authorities to prepare for further patient evacuations due to threats from long-range weapons. The Public Health Ministry reported on July 27, 2025, that the escalating conflict has severely strained medical services in border provinces, necessitating urgent safety measures.
Hospital Closures and Damage
Facilities in Surin and Si Sa Ket Affected
Of the affected hospitals, 11 have been closed entirely, while eight are operating solely for emergency services. Four facilities, including Phanom Dong Rak Hospital in Surin and three subdistrict hospitals in Si Sa Ket, sustained damage from the shelling. These disruptions have forced healthcare providers to prioritize patient safety amid the ongoing border crisis.
Evacuations Underway
Over 600 Patients Relocated
Health professionals have evacuated 617 inpatients from at-risk hospitals to safer facilities in neighboring provinces. Additionally, 138,152 evacuees are being supported at 433 shelters, with 139 individuals requiring hospital care due to illness. The coordinated effort reflects the ministry’s commitment to protecting vulnerable populations during the intensifying conflict.
Rising Civilian Toll
Injuries Mount in Border Areas
The attacks have resulted in significant civilian impact, with 13 individuals lost and 36 injured, including 11 with serious wounds. The toll underscores the urgency of safeguarding medical infrastructure, as hospitals remain critical for treating evacuees and those affected by the violence. Authorities are working to ensure continuous care despite the disruptions.
Preparing for Escalation
Planning for Long-Range Threats
Dr. Weerawut Imsamran, deputy permanent secretary for public health, instructed hospitals in high-risk zones to develop evacuation plans for potential strikes from Cambodia’s long-range weaponry. This proactive measure aims to protect patients and staff by relocating them to secure provinces, ensuring medical services remain accessible despite the volatile situation.
Strain on Border Communities
Healthcare System Under Pressure
The attacks have placed immense pressure on Thailand’s border healthcare system, with closures and evacuations disrupting routine care. As the conflict continues, the Public Health Ministry is focusing on maintaining emergency services and supporting displaced residents, highlighting the broader humanitarian challenges posed by the Thai-Cambodian border clashes.
