Chongqing - Recently, a 73-year-old Australian traveler, Mr. K, proudly showed doctors the "我爱重庆" (I Love Chongqing) tattoo on his arm during his recovery. The phrase took on a powerful new meaning, representing both his survival from a life-threatening illness and his deep appreciation for the city that saved him. This remarkable recovery story can showcase Chongqing's rapid emergence as a leading destination for high-tech, cost-effective international healthcare, drawing patients from around the world with its unique combination of advanced technology and compassionate care.

Mr. K, a frequent visitor to China who had chosen Chongqing as his temporary home, was rushed to the International Medical Center of the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University after developing severe respiratory failure following a trip to Cambodia. His condition upon arrival was critical: oxygen saturation levels had plummeted to 82%, CT scans revealed nearly half of his lungs were infected and showing "white lung" appearance, and multiple organs were beginning to fail. What followed was a meticulously orchestrated 43-day medical battle that demonstrated Chongqing's medical prowess. The international medical team first employed advanced mNGS genetic testing technology to rapidly identify a dangerous Legionella pneumophila infection, a crucial breakthrough for targeted treatment. 

After more than a month of treatment at the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Mr. K from Australia, who is 73 years old, successfully overcame the illness. (Photo/CQTV)

"Conduct precise investigations and obtain etiological evidence as soon as possible! Enhance respiratory support! Maintain oxygenation! Protect organ function! Strictly manage fluid volume!" Dr. Yuan Ying, who led the emergency response, coordinated a multidisciplinary team that worked around the clock to address the cascade of complications.

The treatment journey saw Mr. K transition through multiple critical phases: from initial emergency stabilization to intensive care for renal replacement therapy, and finally to specialized recovery care. Each stage brought new challenges, including managing stubborn anemia and slow lung recovery, which required consultations with additional specialists from hematology and traditional Chinese medicine.

The medical team of the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University provided the patient with a joint consultation and treatment by experts. (Photo/CQTV)

The successful treatment outcome, achieved at approximately one-third the cost of comparable Western medical care, highlights why Chongqing is attracting more international patients. The city has invested heavily in developing world-class medical infrastructure while maintaining significant cost advantages, offering cutting-edge care that remains financially accessible. As he recovered, Mr. K became something of a celebrity among the medical staff, frequently showing them his existing arm tattoo and explaining that the words now represented not just his affection for the city, but his profound gratitude for its medical expertise. "This city didn't just treat me, it saved my life in every sense," he told his doctors during his recovery. "The care I received here has redefined what these words mean to me."

Mr. K showed the medical staff the tattoo on his arm and said he had visited many Chinese cities, but his favorite was still Chongqing. (Photo/CQTV)

Now back in Australia, Mr. K maintains regular contact with his Chongqing medical team through a WeChat channel dedicated to international patients. He regularly shares his ongoing recovery results with his primary physician, Dr. Wang Xiaomeng, and plans to return to Chongqing later this year for follow-up visits. His story represents more than just a medical success; it demonstrates how Chongqing's healthcare sector is building lasting international bridges through clinical excellence, emotional connection, and outstanding value, attracting global patients seeking advanced treatment and compassionate care.