TAICHUNG, Jan. 26,
2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Since its inception in 2016, the
China Medical University Hospital (CMUH) International Center has
been dedicated to providing world-class healthcare to the people of
Guam, delivering nearly 900
services to date. This partnership has extended beyond medical
care, with CMUH's significant contributions during the COVID-19
pandemic. In 2020, the hospital worked closely with Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs to donate
200,000 face masks to Guam, a
gesture for which Guam's
government later issued a resolution of gratitude. Additionally,
CMUH organized "humanitarian healthcare flights" for the people of
Guam, further solidifying ties and
contributing to the sister-city relationship between Taichung and
Guam established in 2022. These
efforts exemplify Taiwan's
commitment to supporting global health, demonstrating the power of
"medical diplomacy."
Dr. Der-Yang Cho, Superintendent
of CMUH, highlighted the hospital's ongoing initiatives, including
regular visits to Guam and
collaborations with local healthcare institutions. One recent
success story underscores CMUH's innovative approach to heart
care.
Transforming Heart Health: One-Stop Surgery Saves Lives
In October (2024), a young woman from Guam, Diana, sought CMUH's help after years of
struggling with atrial fibrillation (AF), a condition that left her
exhausted and unable to fully participate in daily activities.
Despite undergoing anticoagulant treatment and monitoring with a
smartwatch, Diana's episodes persisted, lasting up to 15 hours, and
her condition worsened. A local physician recommended left atrial
appendage closure (LAAC) to reduce stroke risks, but the procedure
was unavailable locally. Desperate for a solution, Diana traveled
to Taiwan in hopes of a healthier
future.
Upon arrival, CMUH's pioneering one-stop heart surgery package
offered a comprehensive solution: a combination of AF ablation and
LAAC. This innovative procedure not only significantly reduced her
risk of stroke but also spared her the need for multiple surgeries
and the long-term use of anticoagulants. Diana's recovery was
swift, allowing her to regain her freedom and return to a life of
full activity.
Dr. Kuan-Cheng Chang, Vice
Superintendent of CMUH Internal Medicine, explained that AF is a
common but potentially debilitating condition caused by abnormal
electrical activity in the heart, leading to irregular and rapid
heartbeats. If left untreated, blood clots can form, potentially
causing strokes. "Our one-stop surgery approach combines the best
of both worlds: ablation and LAAC," Dr. Chang noted. "This
drastically lowers stroke risk and improves the patient's quality
of life."
Diana expressed her gratitude for the care she received at CMUH:
"I'm so thankful for the advanced treatment and patient-centered
care. CMUH gave me the freedom to enjoy life again, and I'm excited
about the future."
Strengthening Ties, Expanding Opportunities
Superintendent Cho also emphasized that CMUH's efforts to
streamline medical travel for Guam
residents continue to be a top priority. As part of this
commitment, the CMUH International Center regularly visits
Guam to assess patient needs and
explore further opportunities for collaboration. Recently, Ms.
Ai-Chi Chou, CEO of the CMUH
International Center, met with key figures including Chia-Ping Liu, Head of the Taipei Economic and
Cultural Office in Guam, and Tina
Muña Barnes, Vice Speaker of the Guam Legislature Committee, to
discuss how to enhance medical travel services for Guam's residents.
CMUH remains steadfast in its mission to provide cutting-edge
healthcare solutions to Guam,
reflecting Taiwan's dedication to
advancing global health partnerships.
Media contact:
Carolyn Chen
100709@tool.caaumed.org.tw
View original content to download
multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cmuh-delivers-groundbreaking-one-stop-heart-surgery-for-guam-strengthening-medical-ties-302360406.html
SOURCE China Medical University Hospital