Samitivej Hospitals, part of Bangkok Dusit Medical Services (BDMS), are a leading group of private hospitals serving both Thailand and the ASEAN region. Samitivej's first hospital was founded in June 1979. Samitivej's main office is located at Samitivej Sukhumvit Hospital, Sukhumvit Soi 49, Bangkok. Samitivej Hospital has a long history of excellent care and innovation. In 1999, Samitivej became the first hospital in Thailand to be awarded the prestigious recognition as a Mother-and-Baby Friendly Hospital by the WHO and UNICEF. Further recognitions include Thailand’s Prime Minister Award for the Most Recognized Service in 2004 and hospital accreditation by the Joint Commission International (JCI). Samitivej was also the first hospital outside of Japan to be accredited with the Japan Council for Quality Health Care (JCQHC) award. Samitivej Hospital was named the best hospital in Asia for medical tourists by the Medical Travel Quality Alliance (MTQUA), ranking among the world’s top 10 hospitals for medical travelers.