Commercial Seated Medical Transfer: Xiamen to Singapore After Acute Heart Failure

When a 77-year-old patient with complex cardiac disease needed to return from Xiamen to Singapore for further treatment, EMA Global arranged a commercial seated medical transfer with doctor and nurse escorts — planned carefully to manage her high-risk profile throughout the journey.

Case background

A 77-year-old lady with underlying heart failure and diabetes developed acute decompensated heart failure secondary to NSTEMI during her trip to Xiamen. She was admitted from 6 September to 14 September 2026, where a coronary angiogram revealed triple-vessel disease. The treating team was unable to proceed with PCI and recommended CABG back in her home country, Singapore.

What we did / How we helped

In view of her high-risk profile, we conducted a commercial seated transfer with both a doctor and a nurse escort on 15 September 2026. Having both medical escorts on board allowed for prompt recognition of any clinical deterioration and timely intervention if required, while ensuring appropriate coordination throughout the transfer.

Difficulties & how we overcame them

The main challenge was transporting a high-risk cardiac patient shortly after an episode of acute decompensated heart failure and NSTEMI, particularly given her triple-vessel coronary artery disease and the potential risk of further cardiac deterioration during travel. To mitigate these risks, the transfer was planned with careful consideration of her clinical condition and mobility requirements. A doctor-and-nurse escort team was deployed to provide continuous medical oversight throughout the journey. The patient was also supported throughout the journey to minimise exertion and ensure a safe and comfortable transfer.

The transfer was completed successfully, allowing the patient to return to Singapore for further assessment and treatment.