On June 19, 2024, Associate Professor Thuss Sanguansak, Vice Dean for International Relations and Corporate Communication, representing the Faculty of Medicine, along with international relations officers, welcomed Mei You and Yan Tinging, consuls from the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Khon Kaen.
The meeting aimed to discuss potential academic collaborations, including the exchange of experts, researchers, staff, and students, as well as possible joint activities or projects in the future. The discussions were highly productive and are likely to develop into a positive collaboration between the two institutions, fostering academic internationalization.
Khon Kaen, Thailand – June 11, 2024 – In a landmark collaboration aimed at revolutionizing early disease detection, the Faculty of Medicine at Khon Kaen University (MDKKU), AstraZeneca (Thailand) Company Limited, and the Digital Economy Promotion Agency of Thailand (depa) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) today. This partnership focuses on leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) technology to significantly improve the efficiency and accuracy of early screening for heart failure and lung cancer.
The agreement was signed by representatives as follows:
MDKKU:
Associate Professor Dr. Phattharaphong Makornwet, Dean
Associate Professor Dr. Thuss Sanguansak, Vice Dean for International Relations and Corporate Communication
AstraZeneca (Thailand) Company Limited:
Ms. Apinya Viriyaramphanon, Head of Business Excellence and Innovation
Mr. Jondy Syjuco, Senior Business Unit Director, CVRM & Core Brands
depa Thailand:
Ms. Kasama Kongsak, Assistant Director General, Strategy and Security Group
Through this collaboration, MDKKU will utilize AI technology provided by AstraZeneca. This AI will be instrumental in detecting early warning signs of heart failure and lung cancer, enabling faster and more precise diagnoses, which holds the potential to significantly improve patient outcomes.
The ultimate goal of this partnership is to reduce mortality rates from these two leading causes of death and enhance the overall quality of life for patients. Early detection allows for timely intervention and treatment, leading to better prognoses and improved health outcomes. Additionally, depa’s involvement will ensure the development of a robust digital infrastructure to support the sustainable implementation of this AI-powered screening system.
The MOU signing ceremony was witnessed by distinguished representatives from all three parties.
AstraZeneca (Thailand) Ltd.:
Tanika Pannoppa Business Unit Director – Oncology
Narubon Kanungsatitkit Product Manager, CVRM (Head of Project from CVRM)
Rattakorn Chaokunha National Sales Manager
Sawacke Wuthithanchamroen BBU Expansion Commercial Head
Tanitra Ju-ngam Business Unit Director – Rare Disease
Kritamait Vithayaruksun Government and Public Affairs Manager
Acting Lt. Din Supawat Senior Officer, Central Northeastern Provincial Cluster Office
Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University
Prof. Sirirat Anutrakulchai Vice Dean for Research and Innovation
Prof. Warachaya Phanphruk Assistant Dean for International Relations and Corporate Communication
Prof. Burabha Pussadhamma Head, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine
Montri Yasud Assistant Dean for Physical Facilities and Environment Management
Manun Tanaichot Head, Division of Diagnostic Radiology, Queen Sirikit Heart Center of the Northeast
John F. Smith English Specialist, International Relations Office
The signing of this MOU marks a significant step forward in Thailand’s healthcare landscape. By embracing AI technology, this collaboration paves the way for a future where early disease detection becomes more efficient and accurate, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for all.
“I joined the program because I wanted to explore the work environment of hospitals in another country. Particularly, I went to the USA because it has world-leading medical services in technology and education.”
On April 26, 2024, Mr. Kentaro TANIHATA from Gifu University who has joined our department of Department of Otorhinolaryngology for four weeks, and Mr. Yutaro Sakanaka from University of Tsukuba who has joined our department of Emergency Medicine for two weeks, fifth-year exchange students from Japan successfully concluded MDKKU elective program.
Mr. TANIHATA shared his impression on his experience that he encountered clinical cases that he has never seen in Japan, “I experienced cases that I’ve never seen in Japan. I was impressed with a case of gunshot wound, and many cases of traffic accidents” he said. He noted that these experiences were particularly striking because such cases are uncommon in his home country, offering him a valuable and eye-opening perspective on the diversity of medical emergencies faced in different regions.
Mr. Sakanaka also expressed his deep appreciation for the warmth of the community and the heartfelt welcome extended by KKU personnel. “The students at KKU students were very welcoming and supportive during my stay, providing me with valuable insights about KKU, hospital, and local area” he shared.
“I strongly recommend visiting KKU as a medical elective program student!” – Mr. Sakanaka
“KKU provided such a high quality program!” – Mr. TANIHATA
On May 30, 2024, Dr. Kanthana Panyasvath and Dr. Jorveu Yianouchongteng, third-year emergency medicine residents from the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Health Sciences in Laos, successfully completed their four-week elective program with our Department of Emergency Medicine. Their program ran from May 6 to May 31, 2024.
They shared their impressions of the seamless teamwork within the emergency team. This high level of organization allowed the team to provide swift and effective care, minimizing wait times and optimizing patient outcomes. Dr. Yianouchongteng said “The emergency team, doctors and nurses work like autosystem, so patients get quickly to the treatment”
They noted that this combination of friendliness and professionalism created an inviting and supportive environment, making their transition smooth and their stay enjoyable. The welcoming atmosphere fostered a sense of belonging and collaboration, enhancing their overall experience and reinforcing the value of community in the medical field. “Residents and staff are very friendly and professional,” they shared.
“Great system, clean, and friendly staff” – Dr. Jorveu
On May 21, 2024, MD-KKU, led by Assoc. Prof. Pattarapong Makarawate, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, along with the Dean and members of the Faculty of Architecture, welcomed Prof. Michael Siminovitch, Professor of Design, Rosenfeld Chair in Energy Efficiency, Director of the California Lighting Technology Center, and Associate Director of the Energy Efficiency Center at the University of California, Davis. Prof. Siminovitch was the guest speaker for a remarkable seminar on “Circadian Design-Stress Mitigation for Healthcare Environments.”
On this occasion, Assoc. Prof. Pattarapong Makarawate welcomed Prof. Michael Siminovitch with a warm speech: “Your presence marks a significant milestone in our journey towards academic and research collaboration, and we are thrilled at the prospect of discussing future collaborations with you. Together, we can lay the groundwork for joint initiatives that will undoubtedly advance our mutual goals of enhancing healthcare environments and outcomes,” he said.
During the meeting, Prof. Siminovitch presented his research on lighting design for healthcare facilities and environments. The seminar emphasized enhancing patient wellness through mindful environmental design, highlighting aspects such as the design of pre-op surgery areas, imaging rooms, suitable lighting for restrooms, and the use of amber light. The event also featured discussions on academic and research collaborations, along with a visit to Srinagarind Hospital.
This valuable meeting served as a bridge between the Faculty of Medicine and the University of California, Davis (UC Davis). We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Prof. Michael Siminovitch, and we look forward to future collaborations as we share the same goal of enhancing patient healthcare and services.
Reporting by Sathaphorn Onlamun & Waratchaya Rachpoochai
On May 21, 2024, MD-KKU warmly welcomed Mr. Yutaro Sakanaka, a fifth-year medical student from University of Tsukuba, Japan. Mr. Sakanaka will be joining the Department of Emergency Medicine for a two-week period from May 21 to 30, 2024.
The orientation day began with the International Relations Officers gave Mr. Sakanaka with an insightful introduction to the Faculty of Medicine and Khon Kaen University. The session included a brief on popular Thai dishes and essential phrases for everyday conversation, aimed at easing his transition into the local culture. Following the introduction, Mr. Sakanaka was guided to the Department of Emergency Medicine to meet his supervisors.
Introduction to KKU and Faculty of Medicine
Visiting Department of Emergency Medicine
The tour continued with a visit to key places within Srinagarind Hospital, where Mr. Sakanaka was introduced to the hospital’s facilities and operations. A highlight of the morning was his attempt to buy lunch in Thai at the canteen, using the newly learned vocabulary and expressions.
Ordering lunch in Thai
The afternoon session featured a KKU campus tour. Utilizing the KKU smart transit system, he was familiarized with the shuttle bus routes and boarding procedures. The first stop was the Sports Complex, where he explored the sports stadium, swimming pool, and fitness center. The tour proceeded to the KKU Art and Culture Center, where he gained insights into Thai culture through its diverse collection of artworks. The day concluded with a visit to the Food and Services Center 1 (Complex), exploring various shops and services available to students.
Visiting Fitness KKU
Exploring KKU Art and Culture Museum
This orientation aimed to ensure that Mr. Sakanaka feels comfortable and supported as he begins his medical training at Khon Kaen University. By familiarizing him with the campus, introducing essential language skills, and showcasing key facilities, MD-KKU has set the stage for a successful and enriching exchange experience for him.
Reporting by Sathaphorn Onlamun & Kunthida Paiyasen
On May 7, 2024, MD-KKU welcomed fifth-year medical exchange students, Mr. Kentaro TANIHATA from Gifu University, Japan and Miss Mildred Fabiola GONZALEZ BERMUDEZ from Universidad Iberoamericana, Costa Rica. They have joined our Department ofOtorhinolaryngology and Department of Surgery for a four-week period.
During their orientation morning, the International Relations Officers started with a brief introduction to the Faculty of Medicine and Khon Kaen University, popular Thai dishes and essential Thai phrases for everyday conversation. Following this, they visited their respective departments for meetings with their supervisors.
Introduction to KKU and Faculty of Medicine
Visiting the Department of Surgery
Visiting Department of Otorhinolaryngology
They then took a quick tour of key areas within Srinagarind Hospital, and then headed to the canteen where they tried to purchase their lunch in Thai using the vocabulary and expressions they had learned earlier.
In the afternoon, we conducted a guided tour of significant locations within Khon Kaen University. Utilizing the KKU smart transit system (shuttle bus) as our primary mode of transportation, we aimed acquainted them with the routes and boarding procedures of the KKU smart transit system (shuttle bus) and also visited the Sports Complex, sports stadium, swimming pool, and fitness centers. Following this, we proceeded to the KKU Natural History Museum, showcasing valuable historical and natural resources, as well as a wealth of traditional and global knowledge. Our final stop was the KKU Learning Media Center, where they had the opportunity to purchase various souvenirs and KKU merchandise.
Visiting KKU fitness center
Exploring KKU Natural History Museum
We hope that this first-day orientation was helpful to Mr. Kentaro and Miss Mildred as they embark on their medical exchange journey at KKU. We helped them get to know the campus, introduced them to important language skills, and showed them around key facilities, in order to make sure they feel comfortable and supported as they settle into their new surroundings and life.
Reporting by Sathaphorn Onlamun & Kunthida Paiyasen
