KATHMANDU, APRIL 11
It has been nearly five months since Manfred Michael Elian, a 53-year-old from Stuttgart, Germany, was admitted to Kathmandu's HAMS Hospital for treatment. Though his condition has improved, he remains hospitalized, waiting for discharge for the past three months.
While doctors declared him medically fit for discharge in late January, uncertainty over his post-hospital care has left him stranded. "It's kind of a nightmare," Manfred told THT, expressing hope for the German government's intervention. "How and where should I go from here?" he asked from his bed (No. 731) at the post-operative ward of HAMS Hospital. "I don't want to get traumatized here anymore."
The question of who will ensure his safety and support after discharge remains unresolved. "The hospital, the German Embassy, and the patient are working together to explore options for a safe transition, prioritizing his well-being-but a solution seems distant," a hospital source said. An executive added, "HAMS Hospital is ready to discharge him anytime, but no one has come to receive him."
As a German national, Manfred hopes his government will step in. "The situation is getting complicated. I need concrete action to get me out of here," he said.
On November 19, 2024, Manfred was found unconscious in his hotel room and rushed to HAMS Hospital in critical condition. Doctors diagnosed him with Severe Acute Bacterial Meningitis, metabolic encephalopathy, sepsis, and ischemic heart disease, requiring mechanical ventilation to stabilize his breathing.
Medical teams worked tirelessly to improve his condition. Over time, he showed progress, transitioning from the ICU to the High Dependency Unit (HDU). His recovery, though slow, was a testament to his resilience and the staff's dedication.
HAMS Hospital emphasized its holistic approach to care. "Our commitment extends beyond physical health-we ensure patients have the support they need for the next steps in their journey," an executive said. "This case reminds us that healthcare is not just about treatment but understanding the whole person, collaborating for their recovery, and securing their future."
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, keeping the embassy informed every step of the way."
As Manfred waits for a resolution, the hospital, embassy, and patient continue seeking a way forward-one that ensures his safety and dignity beyond the hospital walls.
