Nanhua Hospital faces scrutiny over delayed emergency surgery in Hunan

A 71-year-old woman in Hengyang, Hunan province, suffered permanent paralysis and loss of speech after a dispute over medical payments at Nanhua Hospital. According to her son, the patient suffered an acute cerebral infarction while hospitalized for a fall injury.

The hospital reportedly demanded a pre-payment of 30,000 yuan before performing emergency surgery. Because the patient's companion could not complete an online transfer or provide sufficient cash immediately, the hospital refused to proceed with the operation. Despite the family's attempts to offer a partial payment of 10,000 yuan, the medical staff declined and requested the family sign a document refusing surgery.

The patient was eventually transferred to another hospital, where she survived but was left with severe neurological consequences. The Hengyang health department has stated it will investigate the matter, noting that hospitals should prioritize life-saving care.