An 85-Year-Old Indonesian Woman's Cross-Border "Heart" Journey

Before discharge, Ms. Chen (third from the left) took a photo with the medical team of XMCH to commemorate the occasion

A 5.5-hour flight covering thousands of kilometers—85-year-old Ms. Chen, a Chinese-Indonesian, embarked alone on a journey to seek medical treatment in Xiamen, China. Her destination was Xiamen Cardiovascular Hospital Xiamen University (hereinafter referred to as "XMCH"). In less than a week, she successfully underwent a pacemaker implantation and a comprehensive cardiovascular examination. Her recovery progressed well, and she was discharged safely yesterday, filled with warmth and gratitude. “This place doesn't feel like a hospital. There's a sense of familiarity, and even though I was in a foreign country, I felt at home. The doctors' skills are exceptional, and their care is meticulous. I will share my experience at XMCH with people in Indonesia so that more patients like me can find hope,”Ms. Chen said, deeply moved after overcoming her heart condition.

At 85, Ms. Chen had been suffering from heart disease for years. Due to restenosis after a previous stent procedure, she underwent coronary intervention a year ago. Recently, she experienced sudden fainting episodes, and doctors in Indonesia diagnosed her with sick sinus syndrome, recommending a pacemaker implantation.“In Indonesia, as soon as I entered the hospital, I was sent to the ICU. My heart would occasionally stop, once even for nine seconds—it was terrifying!” Ms. Chen recalled.“Medical conditions in Indonesia are limited. When facing serious health issues, many people choose to seek treatment in neighboring Malaysia or Singapore. But medical expenses there are high, and the waiting times are very long.”

After careful consideration, Ms. Chen placed her hopes on a hospital thousands of kilometers away in Xiamen. The next day, she booked a flight and embarked on her journey alone. She arrived safely in Xiamen on the evening of March 7 and Check in XMCH. On March 10, Dr. Li Linlin, Director of Cardiology Department, led her team to perform a coronary angiography and pacemaker implantation for Ms. Chen. She recovered quickly and was discharged on March 13. Before leaving, she happily took photos with the medical team and expressed her heartfelt appreciation:“The doctors and nurses here are highly responsible. Their excellent skills, efficient treatment, and warm services left a deep impression on me. I will always remember this kindness and share this wonderful experience with others.”

President Wang Yan's team from XMCH visited the Indonesian Chinese Chamber of Commerce

Ms. Chen's connection with XMCH can be traced back to XMCH's international exchanges last year.In August 2024, XMCH's President Wang Yan, led a delegation to Indonesia to discuss international medical cooperation and talent exchange with the Indonesian Chinese Chamber of Commerce. The delegation also hosted cardiovascular health lectures and emergency heart care training. This event helped raise awareness about cardiovascular diseases among Indonesians and provided a bridge to high-quality medical resources. Ms. Chen learned about XMCH's expertise during this event and exchanged contact information with XMCH's doctors. Little did she know that this small act would later save her life.

The team of President Wang Yan guided Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital in performing interventional cardiovascular procedures

Ms. Chen's experience is a vivid reflection of XMCH's growing international influence. In recent years, XMCH has actively responded to the Global Development Initiative by launching the Heart Sapling Visiting Scholar Program, providing specialized cardiovascular training to young doctors worldwide. The hospital has also established close partnerships with multiple international medical institutions and collaborated with Chinese medical device companies to introduce innovative technologies overseas. In June 2024, XMCH officially established its International Medical Center, with Phase II focusing on expanding international healthcare services.

“This cross-border trust is what drives us forward,”said Dr. Li Linlin. “In the future, XMCH will continue to deepen international medical cooperation and strive to become a globally influential medical center, ensuring better healthcare for patients worldwide.”