BANGKOK, THAILAND – A Dutch citizen has died in Thailand less than 24 hours after being discharged from a hospital following heart treatment, with his Thai wife now raising serious allegations of medical negligence and a lack of informed consent.
Gesundheitscheck endet mit der Diagnose einer gefährlichen Herzerkrankung
The deceased, identified as Richard, had traveled from the Netherlands for a routine health check-up. An electrocardiogram revealed an abnormal heartbeat, prompting doctors to recommend a stress test on a bicycle.
During the test, Richard reportedly grew tired. Medical professionals suspected coronary heart disease and immediately initiated a contrast agent examination in the intensive care unit.
Drei verengte Gefäße und eine drängende Empfehlung
This examination confirmed that three coronary arteries were narrowed, a condition doctors described as highly dangerous, advising an immediate intervention.
A balloon angioplasty was performed on two of the affected arteries while Richard was still hospitalized. The total cost of the procedure amounted to approximately 800,000 Baht.
„Der Eingriff lief ohne unsere Zustimmung“
Richard’s wife, Jiranuch, stated she was unaware of the procedure until after it was completed. She claimed that neither she nor Richard’s children were contacted by the doctors prior to the intervention.
According to Jiranuch, no relative confirmed the procedure with a signature. Initially, she expressed relief that the cause of his condition had been identified and treated.
Nur eine Nacht im Krankenhaus, dann die Entlassung
Richard remained in the clinic for one night of observation after the balloon angioplasty before returning home the following day.
For the treatment of the third untreated vessel, the doctor quoted a waiting period of three days until the contrast agent could be eliminated, Jiranuch reported. When questioned about the risks, the medical professional indicated a complication rate of only 0.05 percent.
Weniger als 24 Stunden später ist Richard tot
Richard passed away at his home less than 24 hours after his discharge. The exact cause of death has not been publicly specified.
Jiranuch initially believed in a fair process and remained silent, hoping the doctors would clarify the case. However, she stated that the doctors denied any misdiagnosis, according to her account.
Blockiert auf allen Kanälen
The widow claims she never met the treating physician again after these events and states that she has been blocked by the medical staff on all social media platforms.
Jiranuch has sharply criticized Thailand’s healthcare system, describing it as a profit-oriented business, and aims to warn other families.
Familie leidet, Witwe bricht ihr Schweigen
Richard’s sudden death has profoundly shaken his family’s life. Jiranuch described him as the family’s head and spoke of severe emotional consequences.
On June 8th, she publicly brought the case to light on Facebook. No legal action has been announced as a result to date.