SAMUT SAKHON — A hospital in Samut Sakhon has agreed to compensate two families after mistakenly handing over the wrong newborns to parents following inpatient treatment last month, according to an official statement released on Monday.
The incident, involving a Thai family and a Myanmar family, was acknowledged by Dr. Surawit Sakdanuparb from Samut Sakhon’s Public Health Office and Dr. Thammawit Kuakoonkiat, director of Krathumbaen Hospital. The mix-up occurred after both newborns were placed in a special unit to receive treatment for an infection. During their stay, the babies’ identification wristbands were removed for bathing and mistakenly swapped by nursing staff.
According to the hospital’s statement, the Thai family realized something was wrong upon noticing the baby they brought home displayed physical features that were markedly different from their own. This observation led the family to request a DNA test, which confirmed that the baby was not biologically theirs.
As part of its response, Krathumbaen Hospital has agreed to provide free medical services to both children as compensation for the mistake. Dr. Surawit assured that the hospital is taking steps to prevent such errors in the future.
Officials involved, including Dr. Surawit and Dr. Thammawit, emphasized that while the situation was regrettable, they are committed to supporting both families during this difficult time.
