CHIANG RAI – Prachanukroh Hospital in Meuang Chiang Rai has released a statement after nursing staff gathered in front of the hospital to oppose a new schedule that includes 12-hour nursing shifts. The hospital says it’s opening channels to hear feedback, so staff can help shape a work model that fits real conditions on the wards.
The situation follows a new announcement from the Thailand Nursing and Midwifery Council that sets work-hour requirements. After that update, some nurses at Chiang Rai Prachanukroh Hospital in Chiang Rai Province spoke out online and joined a protest, saying the 12-hour shift plan could increase workload, reduce rest time, and harm staff health. They also warned it could affect patient services.
Chiang Rai Prachanukroh Hospital Response
On March 16, 2026, Chiang Rai Prachanukroh Hospital issued a statement addressing concerns shared on social media about how nursing shifts are being managed.
The hospital emphasized that staff are the center of the system. It said nurses and other health professionals play a key role in patient care, so fatigue from work that pushes people past their limits is the hospital’s top concern. In other words, staff well-being supports safe, high-quality care.
The hospital also stated that its current scheduling follows professional standards. However, it acknowledged that the area has a large number of patients, which adds pressure across units. Because of this, the hospital is reviewing staffing allocation, compensation, and related systems to support better work-life balance and reduce long-term fatigue. It also said it wants the solution to come from a shared process, not a one-sided decision.
More ways for nurses to share input
Hospital leadership said it has opened more ways to listen to nurses from all sections. The goal is to co-design a work approach that matches daily realities on the floor.
At the same time, the hospital said it will focus on three priorities, even with limited staffing levels:
- Enough rest time for nurses and staff
- The highest standards of patient care
- Fair and appropriate compensation
Finally, the hospital said it will work toward a clear, practical solution as soon as possible, so staff can work with more comfort and the community can keep receiving strong medical services.
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Chiang Rai Hospital Nurses Oppose 12-Hour Shift Cap, Cite Staff Shortages
