A Neurologist Who Understands Life Through Gaming
– Dr. Chakraphong Lorsuwansiri –
A love for gaming and cartoons may not seem like the traits of a doctor, but for Dr. Chakraphong Lorsuwansiri, a neurologist at the Brain and Nervous System Centre at BNH Hospital, these are part of his relaxation time. These hobbies are far from the negative stereotypes often associated with gaming. For Dr. Chakraphong, these interests have helped him learn more about people through games and life experiences, ultimately shaping him into a doctor who understands his patients better.
Path to Becoming a Neurologist
Dr. Chakraphong was always an obedient child, sticking to the expectations set by his parents and never doing anything considered inappropriate.
“There was only one time I skipped school to watch Titanic, because everyone was watching it, and there was no other time. But besides that, I followed the rules,” he recalls with a laugh.
He was a middle-of-the-road student not especially gifted until he met a tutor in high school who made chemistry, a subject he previously struggled with, suddenly clear and easy to understand.
“This is the foundation for many people who overcome difficulties. At least, when you try, you realise, ‘I can do this.’ I used to really struggle with chemistry, but once I understood it and practised, it became possible. I wasn’t sure if I liked it, but when I put in the effort, I managed.”
Through hard work, he passed the entrance exams and was admitted to the Faculty of Medicine at Thammasat University. By his fourth year, he had developed an interest in internal medicine, although he still didn’t know which specialisation to pursue. He just knew he wanted to give his best effort. After completing his degree, he went on to serve at Phutthachinarat Hospital in Phitsanulok, a central hospital receiving patients from lower northern Thailand.
“Working in a real hospital was so different from what we’d learnt in medical school. I once had a patient with arrhythmia, and after administering the medication, I could instantly see the relief on his face. Even for something simple like the flu, when patients thank you after they get better it might be something doctors get used to, but deep down, it’s what keeps us motivated to continue in our work.”
After his government service, Dr. Chakraphong chose to specialise in neurology at Thammasat University, before moving to work at BNH Hospital. Here, he discovered his passion for the lesser-known field of neurology.
“I think epilepsy is a ‘dark science’ because it’s not widely discussed. People tend to focus more on things they’re already familiar with,” he explains.
Further Training and Experience Abroad
Dr. Chakraphong then flew to the United States to study epilepsy for about a year at the UH Cleveland Medical Centre in Cleveland, Ohio. After returning to Bangkok, he resumed his work at BNH Hospital.
As an internist, he was able to treat a wide variety of neurological diseases, not limited to epilepsy, which although less common, is a serious and difficult-to-manage condition especially when no obvious triggers are identified.
“Let’s say you drink alcohol and have a seizure if you don’t drink, you won’t have a seizure. That’s simple. But when seizures are due to brain abnormalities, patients have to take medication regularly. Some cases are complications from other conditions, such as a heart attack or stroke, where a lack of blood flow to the brain leads to seizures, which are harder to control.”
The BNH Approach to Patient Care
The hospital’s atmosphere, with its focus on treating entire families through generations, means Dr. Chakraphong often sees patients repeatedly, not only because of his medical expertise but also due to the rapport he builds with them.
“We’re good listeners. We let patients talk, but we also assess them to see whether they prefer indirect or direct communication. There’s always a medical issue that needs addressing. We provide care following BNH’s Complete Care policy, looking at everything from prevention to treatment. It’s better to catch things early than to wait for problems to escalate.”
Life Lessons From Living Abroad
“I encourage people to live abroad. It’s a good opportunity to see if the stories you hear from others are true,” says Dr. Chakraphong with a smile.
Before going to the US, he had imagined it would be an easy and comfortable life. However, upon arriving, he realised that his perception, shaped by city life in Bangkok, was very different from reality in the US.
“When I arrived, around 1 a.m., I expected to find 24-hour convenience stores everywhere. But the city I was in didn’t have any nearby. The nearest 24-hour store was kilometres away, and at 1 a.m., I didn’t want to walk in a new city. I realised the American way of life isn’t exactly as we see in New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago; those are just the exceptions. That night, I had to wait hungry.”
In Cleveland, Ohio, Dr. Chakraphong encountered many people from diverse backgrounds. He learned a lot about how different cultures perceive life and how they end up migrating, particularly refugees fleeing war-torn regions.
“It’s the true definition of ‘broken homes,’” he reflects. “When you go abroad, you don’t just see the country, but you also meet the people who live there, and you learn from them. It’s not just about academics, it’s about understanding different people and places, which you can’t fully grasp as a tourist.”
Gaming and Life Perspectives
Dr. Chakraphong admits that even as an adult, he still enjoys playing online games. “I like it because it’s like an escape, where I don’t have to think too much. It’s fun and relaxing,” he says.
He plays MMORPGs (Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games), where players take on characters and can interact with others in the game world.
“I don’t chat much during the game, but what’s interesting is the culture within the game. The rules are strict. If you’re rude, you get banned. If you communicate too directly, like saying, ‘You can’t go there you’ll die,’ the game teaches you to say something like, ‘Maybe you should stand here it’s safer.’ It’s a way to reduce conflict. I think it reflects Japanese culture, where working together is important. After a hard day at work, it’s a great way to unwind.”
Though he only started playing Final Fantasy 14 during the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Chakraphong quickly became captivated by the beauty of the language, the fun of crafting stories, and the engaging social dynamics. He compares the game to reading a quality book.
“Sometimes, we have to wait to join a boss fight, and while waiting, people from different backgrounds just come together to help, even though we don’t know each other. It’s heartwarming, and it’s a reflection of the gaming community’s team spirit that often transcends individual differences.”
A Doctor Who Understands People
Dr. Chakraphong’s passion for gaming has not only helped him relax, but it’s also contributed to his understanding of human nature, which is crucial when treating patients from all walks of life.
“The value of life is in understanding others. Some of this comes from life experiences or simply growing older. When we’re younger, we think we’re the centre of the universe, but as we grow, we realise that’s not the case. Understanding and accepting our role in society gives us a more fulfilling life.”
His calm, easy-going nature makes him a doctor who connects well with both colleagues and patients. Dr. Chakraphong’s personal experiences and diverse interests help him provide compassionate, comprehensive care making him not just a neurologist but also a trusted friend and advisor to his patients.
Articles & Published Content
ทำนัดหมายแพทย์ออนไลน์ | Appointment
CHAKRAPHONG LORSUWANSIRI, M.D.
นพ. จักรพงศ์ หล่อสุวรรณศิริ
Speciality
Neurology
Education
Medical Degree, Doctor of Medicine, Thammasat University, Thailand
Fellowship
Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophisiology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine & University Hospitals Case Medical Center, United States of America
Board and Sub board Certification
Thai Medical Council, Neurology, Thammasat University
Language
English
Thai
Gender
Male
Schedule
Neuro Centre
| Day | Time |
|---|---|
| Monday | 08:00 - 19:00 |
| Tuesday | 12:00 - 19:00 |
| Wednesday | 13:00 - 19:00 |
| Thursday | - |
| Friday | - |
| Saturday | 08:00 - 17:00 |
| Sunday | - |
This is the doctor's regular weekly schedule. Actual availability may vary — please confirm the available date and time when you make an appointment.