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American Expat Says Indian ER Treated Thumb for Rs 50 as Video Goes Viral

The Instagram video is being shared as a personal story about affordability and access, not a measure of either country’s health system.

Overview

  • Kristen Fischer recounts cutting her thumb while cooking and visiting a nearby hospital, where nurses and doctors controlled the bleeding and suggested stitches might not be needed.
  • She says the emergency visit took about 45 minutes with no waiting, and that the hospital charged her Rs 50, roughly 60 cents.
  • Fischer describes cycling to a facility about five minutes from her home, emphasizing proximity and ease of access.
  • She contrasts her experience with the United States, citing a claimed $2,000 minimum charge to enter an ER and monthly insurance premiums of $1,000 to $2,000.
  • Media reports note the video has drawn more than 114,000 to 117,000 views and comments praising low costs, with some referencing charitable hospitals and similar experiences.