The Model Development of Compassionate Communities in Thailand from the Study of Kalasin Municipality’s Community-Based Palliative Care System for the End-of-Life Elderly Patients and their Families DOI:

Abstract

This study employed a qualitative, descriptive–analytical research design. Its objectives were: 1. to collect and analyze knowledge on compassionate communities derived from the care of elderly patients at the end of life and their families within community-based palliative care services, and to compare these findings with approaches to compassionate community development in the state of Kerala, India; 2. to synthesize a model of compassionate community development for the upper northeastern region; and 3. to examine recommendations for building compassionate communities that foster collaboration between the public sector and other community stakeholders. Data were collected through purposive in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with 36 key actors within the compassionate community volunteer network of Kalasin Municipality. Participants comprised: 1) the core volunteer leaders of the Namdam City Volunteer Group, along with administrators and operational staff of Kalasin Municipality; 2) principal partners, including Buddhist monks, Christian and Muslim religious leaders, the palliative care unit of Kalasin Hospital, primary care units within the Kalasin Hospital and Kalasin Municipality networks, village health volunteers, community leaders, private business representatives, and charitable organizations; and 3) volunteer family members of patients who had received services, as well as three experts. The findings indicate that the volunteer network aligns with the nine key characteristics of compassionate communities and the five social and political functions articulated in the Compassionate City Charter. An innovative Compassionate Community Learning Center established by Kalasin Municipality functions as an “advocacy and support organization.” However, limitations were identified: the operational model remains largely reactive and lacks mechanisms to engage youth participation, potentially constraining future service expansion and effectiveness. Practical recommendations include adherence to principles of transparency, management guided by SMART criteria, development of culturally contextualized volunteer training curricula, and the creation of a supportive community ecosystem conducive to sustainable well-being. At the policy level, local administrative organizations should establish structures and mechanisms to enhance public awareness and mobilize supportive resources in order to improve holistic quality of life and strengthen community resilience.