The heart centre at the National Referral Hospital (JDWNRH) in Thimphu has significantly reduced the number of referrals abroad, saving millions of ngultrum for the government. Since its opening in September 2023, only seven heart patients have been referred overseas, compared to over 100 annually in the past. According to the hospital management, this reduction in referrals has saved the government approximately Nu 50 M.
In its first year, the centre has treated more than 500 cases, with over 100 patients receiving pacemaker treatments.
Pacemaker treatment involves placing a small device in the chest to control the heart’s electrical activity. The device sends pulses to help the heart beat at a regular rate and rhythm.
In Bhutan, a single-chamber pacemaker treatment at the centre costs around Nu 80,000, compared to over Nu 200,000 if performed abroad.
Depending on the severity, referral costs for heart treatments range from Nu 200,000 to 600,000 per case.
By offering pacemaker treatment within the country, the centre has saved more than Nu 9 M.
In addition to pacemaker treatments, the heart centre also provides services such as angiography and angioplasty procedures used to diagnose and treat heart-related diseases.
Treating these conditions at the national referral hospital saves the government more than Nu 30,000 per case, with over 400 patients benefiting from these services to date.
The cardiologist also noted a reduction in heart-related deaths due to timely interventions and quick service at the centre, with many urgent cases receiving life-saving treatment.
“Aside from the significant reduction in referral costs, patients who were previously sent abroad faced considerable emotional stress, especially those from rural areas. Having these services available here has greatly benefited them,” said Dr Mahesh Gurung, interventional cardiologist, Heart Centre, JDWNRH.
The seven cases referred abroad after the establishment of the centre were those who required open-heart surgery, which is not yet available within the country.
However, the centre plans to introduce this service within the next two years as the necessary equipment and staff are being prepared.
The centre’s pacemaker clinic ensures that the 180 pacemaker patients in Bhutan are regularly monitored, with monthly check-ups.
The heart centre currently operates with around 20 health workers, including one interventional cardiologist, and has treated a higher number of male patients.
Namgay Dema
Edited by Phub Gyem
