How to Create an Online Living Will in Thailand

Data from the National Health Commission Office indicates that citizens submitting their Living Will intentions online have surged from approximately 8,000 to nearly 100,000. This significant increase reflects a growing openness among Thai people toward preparing for a peaceful end-of-life transition.

A Living Will serves as a documented record of an individual's medical treatment preferences during their final moments. It allows patients to specify that they do not wish to receive medical services solely aimed at prolonging the dying process when there is no hope of recovery or return to normal daily life.

This declaration of intent is a protected right under Section 12 of Chapter 1 of the National Health Act B.E. 2550, while electronic processing is supported by the Electronic Transactions Act B.E. 2562. These documents are utilized only when patients enter their final stage, ensuring they still receive palliative care to minimize pain and discomfort naturally.

Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event

Interested individuals can complete their Living Will online through the digital platform by following these steps:

• Visit the official e-Living Will website operated by the National Health Commission Office
• Register for a user account and verify identity using the ThaiD application or a 13-digit national ID number
• Fill out registration details and await the system's confirmation email
• Log back into the system to input specific care preferences for end-of-life treatment
• Review all entered information and confirm the declaration document

Once finalized, the document is securely stored in the system, allowing users to view, print, share, modify, or cancel it independently. Individuals should also inform their families or designated decision-makers of their intentions and review the document periodically if their health status changes.

Source: Thairath Lifestyle