Vaccine Institute and Medical Academic Center
Background
The Department of Ophthalmology at Metta Pracharak Hospital (Wat Rai Khing) was established in 1990 (B.E. 2533) under the initiative of Dr. Chuntakorn Chutidamrong, Director-General of the Department of Medical Services, whose vision was to develop the hospital into the Ministry of Public Health’s national center of excellence in ophthalmology. Subsequently, Dr. Pannet Pangputhipong was appointed to further develop the department and served as the hospital’s first full-time ophthalmologist.
Over the years, the department has continuously expanded its clinical services, academic activities, research, and specialist training programs. Significant milestones include:
2007 – Accredited as a residency training institution in Ophthalmology and a fellowship training center in Oculoplastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
2009 – Signed an academic collaboration agreement with Yale University, United States of America.
2010 – Launched the Vitreoretinal Fellowship Training Program.
2011 – Launched the Glaucoma Fellowship Training Program.
2021 – Expanded its capacity to train seven ophthalmology residents annually.
Today, the institute serves as a leading center for specialized ophthalmic care, research, academic development, and postgraduate medical education, contributing to the advancement of ophthalmology in Thailand.
