Continuous quality improvement is an essential element of medical services quality improvement process. HA is a beneficial approach for Thailand's medical services and public health. Such significant innovation can stimulate health care service providers to focus on the systematic work flows for quality services rendered to patients and their relatives apart from the development of the body of knowledge, skills and technology according to professional standards.

The HA process is creating collective organizational commitment of quality improvement, organizational analysis, self-assessment, strategic formulation of the organizational development planning, human resources development, teamwork and service systems focusing on patient-oriented mindedness. Toward this end personnel at all levels are encouraged to participate in such activities which are organized in the overlapping fashion in order to create cross-manuals, as well as clinical practice guidelines and a care map. Functional teams are formed to benefit from opportunities to improve patient care and service processes. Quality improvement activities and the publication of a guide to the hospital, clinical practice guidelines and a care map have been undertaken in collaboration with nurses and all personnel of the hospital and the faculty.

Quality improvement, by using the HA approach is a concept and practice that yields beneficial results to patients, customers, hospital personnel, the hospital, the Faculty of Medicine, the society and the country as a whole. Nevertheless, the quality improvement processes and human resources development, which require time and dedication from all parties in improving working procedures, the work system and organizational culture. Quality improvement needs to be continuous.

On 25 August 2004, Dr. Surapong Lokehanumanchao, Managing Director of Bangkok Hospital Phuket received the prestigious Prime Minister's Export Award 2004, for Best Service Provider category from The Prime Minister Taksin Shinnawat.

The Award represents the pinnacle of all that we work for and believe, in that care and compassion for our patient regardless of race and nationality, is paramount.

Initiated by former Prime Minister
H.E. Anand Panyarachun, the Prime Minister's Export Award represents the degree of excellence regarding aspects of production processes and overall product quality.

Since its establishment in 1992, this prestigious award has not only inspired Thai export manufacturers, particularly those who possess their own-brand names and develop original product designs, but also has been recognized by many international importers. The award scheme is driven by a vision of developing original and unique Thai products for the world market. The presentation of the Prime Minister's Export award is one of the measures which the Royal Thai Government is undertaking to capably and continually increase export growth.

For the award winners, the Prime Minister's Export Award is one of the quality assurances, which significantly enhance their capability when exposed to the world market with pride and total confidence.

In addition, foreign importers and consumers can greatly appreciate the products /services that meet their preferences in price, design, taste, and satisfaction.

The Prime Minister's Export Award is classified in 5 categories:
1. Best exporter
2. Distinguished Brand
3. Distinguished Design
4. Best Service Provider
5. Most Recognized by Foreign Patrons