Dr Somchai Srisombandit, who now heads the Tak Bai Hospital in Narathiwat province, beat nine other candidates to win the honour from the Mahidol University’s Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital.

“He is fiercely committed to improving his hospital and the quality of life of the locals,” the selection panel’s chair, Dr Samut Chongvisal, said yesterday. “He is a good example for new doctors.”

Under Somchai’s leadership, the Tak Bai Hospital is the only community hospital in the three southern border provinces that has retained a lot of its medical staff. At other hospitals in the violence-hit deep South, many medical workers have tried to seek transfers to safer areas.

In receiving the award, Somchai disclosed that he had embraced HM the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s guidance in his work.

“It’s the principle of reaching out, understanding, and development. To work well, we can’t miss any of these three elements,” Somchai said.

Somchai was born on August 13, 1960, in Narathiwat’s Muang district. He studied medicine at the Prince of Songkla University. After his graduation, he was posted to a hospital in Nakhon Ratchasima and then Roi Et. Since 1998, Somchai has served as the director of the Tak Bai Hospital in Narathiwat’s Tak Bai district.

“When you work with me, you will find your work meaningful. The work environment is good for your physical and emotional health. You can work independently. You will be well loved among locals,” Somchai said during an address to medical students yesterday.

Prof Dr Prasit Watanapa, the dean of the Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, said Somchai was very capable and a real developer.

“Even though he has worked in risky areas, he has constantly improved healthcare services for people. He has put public interest before his own. He deserves the honour and respect,” Prasit said.

The Outstanding Rural Doctor Award comes with a plaque and a cash prize of Bt230,000.