10 Most Influential Thai Doctors Throughout History

Published in

Heritage Digest

12 min readApr 27, 2024

In the rich tapestry of Thailand’s medical history, remarkable doctors have left an indelible mark on medicine. Through their dedication and contributions, these pioneers have shaped how healthcare is practiced in Thailand and beyond. Join us as we explore the lives and legacies of the ten most influential Thai doctors throughout history:

Wongsa Dhiraj Snid (1808–1871)
Margaret Lin Xavier (1898–1932)
Thian Hee Sarasin (1848–1925)
Porntip Rojanasunan (1954-present)
Phon Sangsingkeo (1907–1980)
Therdchai Jivacate (1941-present)
Yong Poovorawan (1950-present)
Smarn Muntarbhorn (1914–2001)
Mahidol Adulyadej (1892–1929)
Prawase Wasi (1931-present)

1. Wongsa Dhiraj Snid (1808–1871)

Wongsa Dhiraj Snid, known as the “Doctor Prince,” was born in 1808, the 49th son of King Rama II of Siam. His upbringing involved learning statecraft, administration, and Buddhist teachings, and he was ordained as a Buddhist monk. During his time as a monk, he likely apprenticed to learn traditional Thai medicine, following the footsteps of his maternal family.

Wongsa Dhiraj Snid became a physician, serving as the royal physician during the reigns of Rama III and Rama IV. While he was trained in traditional Thai medicine, he embraced Western forms of practice. He compiled a scientific textbook of Thai medicinal herbs and was the first physician to use quinine to treat malaria. His contributions to medicine earned him honorary memberships in medical societies in Europe and the United States.

In addition to his medical practice, Wongsa Dhiraj Snid was a diplomat and field commander. He led Siamese forces during the Burmese-Siamese War, negotiated the Bowring Treaty with the United Kingdom, and participated in the Harris Treaty between Siam and the United States. His legacy lives on through his descendants, who took the name Sanidwongse and continued to serve as royal physicians in Thailand. Wongsa Dhiraj Snid’s contributions to medicine and diplomacy remain notable in Thai history, earning him recognition from UNESCO as a “Great World Personality” and a place on a Thai postage stamp.

2. Margaret Lin Xavier (1898–1932)

Margaret Lin Xavier, colloquially known as Dr. Lin, was born on 29 May 1898 in Bangkok, Thailand, to Celestino Maria Xavier, the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, and Kim Kee. Her upbringing included education abroad, where she attended schools in Singapore and London. She pursued medical studies at the London School of Medicine for Women and the Royal Free Hospital, earning an MBBS, MRCS, and LRCP.

Upon returning to Thailand in 1924, Margaret Lin Xavier embarked on a pioneering medical career. She became an obstetrician and worked for various healthcare institutions, including the Thai Red Cross Society and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital. Notably, she also provided care at the medical facility in Bang Rak District, known for treating sexually transmitted diseases. Margaret’s dedication to her patients transcended social classes, and she often treated impoverished sex workers free of charge. She balanced her medical career with motherhood, breastfeeding her children herself despite her social status during that era.

One of the highlights of Margaret’s career was delivering Mom Rajawongse Sirikit Kitiyakara on 12 August 1932, who would later become Queen Sirikit, the queen consort of King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) and the mother of King Vajiralongkorn (Rama X). Tragically, Margaret Lin Xavier’s life was cut short when she contracted encephalitis and succumbed to complications of influenza on December 6, 1932, at the age of 34. Her legacy as the first Thai woman to receive a medical degree and her compassionate medical practice continue to be celebrated in Thai history.

3. Thian Hee Sarasin (1848–1925)

Thian Hee Sarasin, also known by his noble title Phraya Sarasinsawamiphak, was born in Thailand in 1848 to a Chinese father. He came from a family of wealthy rice traders and pharmacists who had immigrated from Hainan Province, China, and settled in Thonburi, a mercantile area across the river from Bangkok. Thian Hee’s upbringing included a significant educational journey, as he was taken to the United States by a missionary at a young age to pursue his studies. Notably, he became the first Thai to study in the US and completed his medical studies at Columbia University in 1871.

Thian Hee became the country’s first medical doctor upon returning to Thailand. He was a prominent military doctor, accompanying the army on expeditions to Laos during the Haw Wars of 1865–1890. His primary duty during these campaigns was administering quinine to soldiers suffering from malaria. Thian Hee’s contributions extended to efforts to reduce the use of witch doctors and witchcraft for healing in Laos as part of the occupational force.

In his later life, Thian Hee returned to his family’s profession as a rice trader and became one of the country’s most influential merchants. He also served as a financial advisor to Queen Savang Vadhana and was an intermediary between the palace and the Chinese merchant community. Thian Hee’s legacy extended to his involvement in founding Siam Cement, which has grown into the second-largest company in Thailand. He also expressed gratitude to the missionary who supported his education by funding the construction of Thailand’s fourth Presbyterian church, Suebsamphanthawong Church, in 1902. Thian Hee passed away in 1925 and was laid to rest in a mausoleum next to the church in the family cemetery. His legacy lives on through his illustrious Sarasin family, which includes his son Pote Sarasin, who became the first secretary-general of SEATO and the ninth prime minister of Thailand.

4. Porntip Rojanasunan (1954-present)

Porntip Rojanasunan, known as Khun Ying Pornthip Rojanasunand, is a renowned Thai forensic pathologist and medical doctor. She gained fame for her significant contributions to forensic science in Thailand and her distinctive style, characterized by unconventional hairstyles and eccentric clothing. Born on December 21, 1954, her journey as a medical professional has left a lasting impact on forensic medicine. Porntip’s upbringing was influenced by her parents, who worked in forensics. She initially attended an American boarding school but aspired to be an interior designer. However, her father’s wish for her to become a doctor led her to pursue a medical career. Her journey into forensic medicine began with an internship, where she studied forensic medicine and conducted autopsies, sparking her passion for the field.

After graduating from Mahidol University’s Faculty of Medicine in 1979, Porntip Rojanasunan embarked on a distinguished career in the Ministry of Public Health. Over the years, she held various positions related to pathology, eventually becoming a key figure in forensic science in Thailand. Her dedication and expertise led to her appointment as the Director of the Central Institute of Forensic Science (CIFS) in 2008, a role she served with distinction.

Throughout her career, Porntip Rojanasunan has been involved in several high-profile cases, including the murder of Jenjira Ploy-angunsri in 1998 and the identification of victims in the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. She was pivotal in introducing DNA evidence and other forensic methods to crime investigations in Thailand. Porntip received the Order of Chula Chom Klao in 2003, earning the title “Khunying” for her outstanding contributions to the field. While she has faced criticism and controversy during her career, her work has undeniably impacted forensic science in Thailand.

5. Phon Sangsingkeo (1907–1980)

Phon Sangsingkeo, also known as Fon Saengsingkaew, was a Thai medical doctor born on April 24, 1907. He is recognized for his significant contributions to psychiatry, earning him the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award for Government Service in 1966. Phon’s holistic approach to mental health set the stage for a more humane treatment of mental patients, emphasizing the principle of “treat the person as a person,” and he is often regarded as the father of modern psychiatry in Thailand.

Phon’s upbringing was marked by a strong commitment to education and a dream of becoming a doctor. He was the son of Sang Panich, a businessman with a noble background who earned the title “Khun” from King Vajiravudh for his honesty and hard work. Phon, the sixth of eleven children, was a dedicated student and pursued his goal of becoming a doctor. He attended Suankularb College for his secondary education and later completed his medical degree at Chulalongkorn University’s School of Medicine in Bangkok at the age of 22.

Throughout his career, Phon’s dedication to improving the well-being of mentally ill individuals led to groundbreaking changes in mental health care in Thailand. He began his career with the Department of Health in 1929 and worked as a provincial medical officer in Sakolnakorn from 1930 to 1934. It was during this time that he developed a keen interest in providing compassionate care to those with mental illnesses. In 1935, he became the assistant director of the mental hospital in Thonburi, where he introduced reforms that prioritized gentleness and love over the use of straitjackets to subdue patients. His commitment to mental health continued as he trained abroad in countries like Japan, the Philippines, and Indonesia, and he later became the director of the Mental Hospital in Thonburi. Phon’s legacy also includes creating green spaces within mental health facilities, providing mental hygiene education, and sending young doctors and nurses abroad for further study, ensuring future work continuity.

6. Therdchai Jivacate (1941-present)

Therdchai Jivacate, born in 1941, is a renowned Thai orthopedic surgeon and inventor known for his remarkable humanitarian efforts in providing free prosthetic limbs to impoverished amputees. His significant contributions to the field of medicine have profoundly impacted many individuals' lives.

Therdchai Jivacate’s early life was marked by his dedication to education and a passion for making a difference. He graduated from the Faculty of Medicine at Chulalongkorn University in 1965. His journey towards becoming a medical professional continued as he pursued further specialization and training in physical medicine and rehabilitation at Northwestern University from 1968 to 1972, followed by a specialization in orthopedic surgery at Chiang Mai University from 1972 to 1975.

One of Dr. Jivacate’s most notable achievements is the founding of the Prostheses Foundation in 1992 under royal sponsorship from Princess Mother Srinagarindra. This organization has played a pivotal role in providing artificial limbs to needy people. Driven by his commitment to helping amputees, he developed innovative techniques that allow for the creation of low-cost, high-quality prostheses from local materials. His work expanded beyond Thailand’s borders to countries like Malaysia, Laos, and Burma, ensuring that more individuals could benefit from his expertise. His dedication to improving the lives of people suffering from amputations earned him the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award for Public Service in 2008, a testament to his remarkable contributions to medicine and humanitarian efforts.

7. Yong Poovorawan (1950-present)

Yong Poovorawan, a prominent figure in pediatrics, was born on November 5, 1950, in Bangkok, Thailand. Growing up as the fourth of six children, he attended Phrapathom Witthayalai School in Nakhon Pathom and later studied at Triam Udom Suksa School for his upper-secondary education. He pursued his academic journey at Chulalongkorn University, earning a Bachelor of Science in 1972 and a Doctor of Medicine in 1974.

Yong’s career in pediatrics began with training at the Chulalongkorn University Faculty of Medicine, followed by board certification from the Medical Council of Thailand in 1978. He dedicated himself to teaching and research at Chulalongkorn University, where he became a faculty member. His commitment to his work led to significant achievements, and he was granted a research fellowship at King’s College Hospital Medical School’s hepatology department in 1983–84.

Throughout his career, Yong Poovorawan’s research contributions have been remarkable. He has authored or co-authored over 400 publications in gastroenterology, hepatology, and virology, with his work significantly impacting the Thai healthcare system. His research expanded into virology studies, making him a national expert on genetic sequencing and detection of the H5N1 avian influenza virus in Thailand, particularly during the outbreaks 2004. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Yong served as an advisor to the Thai government and played a role in vaccine-related discussions. Despite some controversies, his expertise in virology and infectious diseases remained influential in public health. His extensive contributions to research have earned him numerous awards and recognitions, solidifying his position as a distinguished medical professional and researcher in Thailand.

8. Smarn Muntarbhorn (1914–2001)

Smarn Muntarbhorn, born November 20, 1914, in Thailand, is celebrated as a pioneering figure in cardiac surgery. His life and career are marked by significant achievements that have left a lasting impact on the medical profession in his country.

As a child, Smarn Muntarbhorn displayed remarkable promise and dedication to his education. He matriculated from Suan Kularb College in Bangkok, which laid the foundation for his academic journey. His pursuit of excellence in medicine led to a prestigious King’s Scholarship from Thailand, allowing him to continue his studies in England. At 19, he moved to England, enrolled in Manchester Grammar School, and later attended Guy’s Hospital to study medicine. During his time at Guy’s Hospital, Smarn’s exceptional abilities were recognized as he won a scholarship in confined science and was awarded the Golding-Bird gold medal and prize in 1940.

One of Smarn Muntarbhorn’s most notable achievements was becoming Thailand’s first heart surgeon. He earned various medical qualifications, including MRCS in 1941, FRCS in 1945, MB BS from London in 1941, and DTM&H from Liverpool in 1941. His dedication to surgery and cardiac care led to him being recognized as the father of cardiac surgery in Thailand. He achieved the significant milestone of becoming a Fellow of The Royal College of Surgeons of England, marking his excellence in the medical profession. Additionally, his contributions were acknowledged by the King of Thailand, who awarded him a royal honorary doctorate, further solidifying his position as a respected figure in the medical community.

9. Mahidol Adulyadej (1892–1929)

Prince Mahidol Adulyadej was born into Thai royalty as the 69th child of King Chulalongkorn and the 7th of Queen Savang Vadhana, marking the beginnings of a life that would significantly influence the landscape of medicine and public health in Thailand. From a young age, he was immersed in an environment of education and responsibility, starting his schooling at the Royal School within the Grand Palace, eventually venturing abroad to further his education in the military before transitioning into medicine, driven by a profound desire to contribute to his country’s medical advancement.

Educated initially in military academies across Europe, Prince Mahidol’s journey took a pivotal turn towards medicine and public health, catalyzed by the poor state of medical education and healthcare in Thailand and a strategic persuasion by his half-brother, Prince Rangsit. This redirection led him to Harvard, where he pursued public health studies, a decision that would lay the groundwork for his monumental contributions to Thai medicine. His commitment was further exemplified by sponsoring students to study abroad, laying the foundation for a significant improvement in Thailand's medical and public health education.

Prince Mahidol’s major achievements are unparalleled, including transforming Thailand's medical and public health landscape. His return to Thailand saw him take an active role in medical education and public health improvement, culminating in his obtaining an M.D. cum laude from Harvard. Tragically, his life was cut short at 37 due to kidney and liver complications. However, his legacy endures through Mahidol University and the Prince Mahidol Award, cementing his status as the father of modern medicine and public health in Thailand.

10. Prawase Wasi (1931-present)

Prawase Wasi was born in 1931 in Kanchanaburi Province, Thailand, embarking on a journey to establish himself as a prominent figure in medicine and social reform. His upbringing, details of which are less publicly documented, led him to pursue a career dedicated to improving the health and welfare of his fellow Thais. His education at Siriraj Hospital and postgraduate studies at the University of Colorado and London University set the foundation for his illustrious career in hematology and public health.

As a respected haematologist, Prawase made significant contributions to the understanding and treatment of thalassaemia, among other blood disorders, through his research and teaching at Siriraj Hospital, under Mahidol University. His work extended beyond the laboratory and classroom; he published over 100 research articles and was pivotal in advocating for and developing Thailand’s healthcare systems, particularly in rural areas. His dedication to improving public health matched his commitment to education, serving as a professor and eventually as vice president of Mahidol University.

Beyond his medical contributions, Prawase’s influence reached political and social realms. A recipient of the Ramon Magsaysay Award for government service in 1981, he was a key player in Thailand’s political reform, promoting democratic decentralization and establishing non-governmental organizations. His chairmanship of the Democracy Development Committee was instrumental in the drafting and adopting Thailand's 1997 constitution. Today, Prawase remains an active public intellectual, advocating for political and social change based on Buddhist philosophy and remaining a steadfast liberal royalist.