BDMS Invests 170 Million Baht in Biotech to Localize Cancer Treatment
Bangkok Dusit Medical Services (BDMS) has acquired a 55% stake in Genepeutic Bio to develop domestic CAR-T cell therapy, aiming to reduce cancer treatment costs.
According to a report by Prachachat Business, the hospital operator Bangkok Dusit Medical Services (BDMS) has expanded into the biotechnology sector by investing 170 million baht to acquire a 55% stake in Genepeutic Bio. This strategic move is intended to facilitate the commercial production of CAR-T cell therapy, an advanced cancer treatment, within Thailand.
Currently, patients requiring such specialized therapies often face significant costs due to the reliance on imported medical products. By localizing the production of these gene-based treatments, BDMS aims to substantially lower the financial burden for patients, which can currently reach tens of millions of baht.
For residents and expatriates in Thailand, this development is significant as it signals a potential shift toward more accessible high-end medical care. If successful, the initiative could transform the landscape of oncology treatment in the country. However, several steps remain before this becomes a standard clinical reality. BDMS is currently preparing to negotiate with the National Health Security Office (NHSO) to establish treatment centers and secure reimbursement rights under insurance schemes. The timeline for when these treatments will be widely available and the specific criteria for patient eligibility remain to be confirmed by the relevant authorities.
