KATHMANDU, FEBRUARY 12
In the heart of Kathmandu, HAMS Hospital recently became the stage for a story that underscores the power of compassion, the challenges of healthcare, and the resilience of the human spirit. It began on November 19, 2024, when a German national was found unconscious in a hotel room in Thamel. Rushed to a primary care center and later referred to HAMS Hospital, the patient's journey would soon become a testament to the dedication of the hospital's medical team and the complexities of international healthcare.
Manfred Michael Elian from Stuttgart, Germany, who is now at the post-operative ward of HAMS Hospital, now wants to return to his home country as early as possible. But, it would be impossible for him to get out of bed no – 731 at HAMS anytime soon as he couldn't leave the medical facility without payment. Sources said his medical bills now cost more than 6 million rupees in the course of three-month treatment. "I don't know what politics is going on here," the 53-year-old told THT. Since 2000, Elian has visited Nepal several times as a tourist. "This time, it's a kind of nightmare!" Elian said, refusing to talk more on the issue.
When the patient arrived at HAMS, the situation was dire, recounted Senior Executive at HAMS Hospital. "Diagnosed with a series of severe conditions Bacterial Meningitis, Metabolic Encephalopathy, Seborrheic Dermatitis, Allergic Contact Dermatitis, Urinary Tract Infection, and Ischemic Heart Disease, the patient required immediate, intensive care."
HAMS medical team was able to stabilize the patient, providing ventilatory support, and eventually transitioning him to the High Dependency Unit (HDU) as his condition improved. "It was a hard-fought victory, one that showcased the skill and dedication of the hospital's staff," the senior executive said.
But this story is not just about medical care. It's also about the human connections that emerge in times of crisis. "Throughout the patient's hospitalization, HAMS Hospital maintained open and transparent communication with the German embassy and the patient's family," he claimed.
German Embassy representatives visited the hospital multiple times, working alongside the hospital to navigate insurance discussions and explore financial solutions. Initially, the patient's family expressed a willingness to handle the financial obligations, even suggesting the possibility of seeking government support if needed, according to the executive.
"As weeks turned into months, however, the situation grew more complex. The family later stated they could not take responsibility for the hospital expenses and advised the hospital to seek assistance from the embassy. The patient, in turn, declined any embassy involvement in financial matters, leaving the hospital in a difficult position. The embassy clarified that it could not assume liability for the bills, creating a delicate impasse," another senior representative from HAMS Hospital shared.
Despite these challenges, HAMS Hospital has never wavered in its commitment to the patient's well-being. "The patient has been medically fit for discharge, with treatment now reduced to oral medication. Yet, the unresolved financial matters have delayed their departure. The hospital has approached the situation with patience and understanding, even as it has informed the patient that unresolved dues may require the involvement of local authorities."
"HAMS Hospital is ready to discharge the patient any time but no one comes to receive him," the executive said.
Later, an official from the Tourist Police Division visited the hospital to discuss the situation with the patient, addressing concerns about the extended stay and financial obligations. Adding to the complexity, the patient's visa expired on September 10, 2024. "HAMS Hospital has taken the necessary steps to notify the Immigration Department and ensure compliance with legal protocols. The hospital has also filed a legal case to address the unresolved financial matters, keeping the embassy informed every step of the way."
Reflecting on the situation, the HAMS representative added, "This case has been a powerful reminder of what truly matters in healthcare. It's not just about diagnoses and treatments; it's about people-their stories, their struggles, and their humanity. We've poured our hearts into saving a life, navigated uncharted financial and legal challenges, and through it all, we've held onto one unwavering truth: compassion must always guide us. This patient came to us in their most vulnerable moment, and we've stood by them, not just as caregivers, but as fellow human beings. We have worked closely with the German Embassy and local authorities to manage this case with professionalism and compassion, keeping the patient's well-being and necessary protocols in mind."
