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In a recent venture, Andrea and Christoph, two members of our team in Germany, went on a journey to Nepal to learn about the status of stroke care within the country first hand. Their trip, spanning Bharatpur, Kathmandu and Dhulikel, not only provided valuable insights into the healthcare system but also allowed them to experience the captivating natural beauty and rich culture of Nepal.
Bharatpur – Understanding the Challenges and Dedication
The primary objective in Bharatpur was to comprehend the current status of stroke care in local hospitals. Day one involved meetings with doctors and nurses across three hospitals: Chitwan Medical College, Bharatpur Hospital and the College of Medical Sciences. Despite resource challenges and high workloads, the German visitors were inspired by the unwavering dedication of healthcare professionals to enhance stroke care. The day concluded with discussions with hospital management about future steps.
In the following days, the organization of a workshop proved to be a significant milestone in fostering collaboration for better stroke care. Over 40 participants from three different hospitals, including ICU and emergency room personnel, neurologists, and radiologists, gathered to discuss the next steps in advancing stroke care. The workshop laid the foundation for establishing new teams and networks within and between local hospitals.
Additionally, Dr. Lekhjung Thapa, co-leader of the Nepal Stroke Association, and his family, as well as Dr. Pradesh Ghimire from Bharatpur Hospital, kindly took the time to give the visitors further insights into the history and development of stroke care in Nepal.
Following local recommendations, Christoph and Andrea also took the chance to visit the surrounding mountains and temples and explore the breathtaking landscapes of Chitwan National Park.
Kathmandu – Extending High-Quality Stroke Care Beyond the Capital
Transitioning to Kathmandu on day five, Andrea and Christoph journeyed to Chandragiri for a spectacular view of the Himalayas. Returning to the capital, they were able to meet with Dr. Raju, the leader of the Nepal Stroke Association, and his family at Grande International Hospital in Kathmandu. The hospital is a great example ofhigh-quality stroke care, reinforcing the commitment to extend such services throughout the country.
Dhulikel – A Glimpse into the Future of Stroke Care
The final leg of their trip took them to Dhulikel Hospital, a teaching hospital that was recently integrated into the Nepal Stroke Project. The campus not only houses hospital facilities including subspecialists but also provides space for education. Doctors, nurses and paramedics are trained here. The team is determined to improve the stroke care offered at their hospital. The establishment of a stroke unit and ongoing training initiatives, signal a promising step towards becoming “stroke ready” here.
Reflections on Nepal – A Tapestry of Nature, Culture, and Warmth
Throughout their journey, Andrea and Christoph were impressed by the warmth and welcome they received as well as the country’s natural beauty, rich culture, and traditions. Their interactions with healthcare professionals and dedication to improving stroke care left them eager to collaborate further in the fight for enhanced and accessible stroke care for all.
