Separated conjoined twins’ return home stalled over unsettled hospital bills

When 13-day-old conjoined twins Nuha and Naba were brought to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) in 2022, their future was uncertain. Now 32-month-old, the girls are walking and playing separately after undergoing eight successful surgeries to separate their spines and bodies.

Despite the medical triumph, the twins' return home is hindered by an unresolved hospital bill of Tk22 lakh, leaving their parents in misery, following the 5 August political changeover.

While the then prime minister Sheikh Hasina had taken responsibility for their treatment, her ouster in August left the family in financial limbo.

Nuha and Naba were born on 21 March 2022 in a Kurigram clinic. Referred to the BSMMU on 4 April that year, they underwent their first surgery on 31 January 2023. Since then, they have had eight surgeries. They have one more surgery left for full recovery.

"Doctors say my daughters are fine now and can walk, but they still need another surgery in three to six months," said the twins' father, Alamgir Rana. 

"We were told to leave the hospital on 7 November, but we can't because of the outstanding cabin fees of Tk22 lakh. Previous government took responsibility for their treatment. Now, I'm worried about facing legal consequences if I don't pay."

Alamgir, a transport worker, lost his job while staying in Dhaka for his daughters' treatment. "I've mortgaged land, borrowed Tk6 lakh, and my Kurigram house is damaged due to our long absence. How can I manage Tk22 lakh now?" he asked.

Professor Dr Md Shahinul Alam, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Academic) of BSMMU, however, expressed hope for a resolution. 

"We are trying to solve the issue. There is no chance to waive such a large amount from the university directly. But we have asked the Pro-VC (Admin) and the hospital director to find ways to address this matter. No money will be taken from the family, and we aim to release them soon," he assured.

While the BSMMU authorities work on resolving the financial complications, Aamgir urged a quick resolution, stating, "People told us one of the girls might die or both could be crippled, but by the grace of Almighty and the doctors' efforts, they are separated and healthy now. I pray the hospital will help us return home without this burden."

As the family awaits a resolution, the remarkable recovery of the two girls serves as a testament to medical excellence and humanity.