Recently, I noticed a striking similarity in the backgrounds of many ride-hailing drivers in Beijing. Many had transitioned to this line of work due to the economic downturn caused by the pandemic. The first driver, who previously worked in investment banking in Shanghai, took on ride-hailing as a part-time job. He had only slept for three hours before accepting my 5 AM booking. As I sat in the car, I felt a wave of concern for his potential fatigue. He mentioned that even when not driving, he often worked overtime, averaging only four to five hours of sleep a night. Originally from Shanghai, he explained that he moved to Beijing due to family conflicts and had not returned home in six years. When he spoke of this, a long silence fell between us. I couldn't fully understand the feeling of not belonging somewhere, but his silence spoke volumes about the weight of his experience. Given the current economic climate, I hadn’t considered that even finance professionals might need to supplement their income by driving for ride-hailing services. The second driver had nearly 20 years of experience in high-end car sales, where he served as a sales manager. From the moment I got in the car, I could tell his service was exceptional. He inquired about the temperature, reminded my sister to exit from the right side, and carefully checked the rearview mirror for approaching vehicles. His friendliness and articulate communication made it clear he had a story to tell. He was very talkative, sharing insights about various high-end car management systems, analyzing their pros and cons with the authority of someone who had observed the industry for years. His sales acumen shone through; unlike most ride-hailing drivers who worked all day, he had a strategy. He would accept rides during peak hours and target long-distance bookings to airports or train stations. During holidays, when the city was congested, he would focus on rides from the outskirts to avoid the crowds at tourist spots. This strategy allowed him to earn around 16,000 to 17,000 yuan a month while enjoying a flexible schedule. Ultimately, life seems to be about navigating change. In this uncertain era, the only constant is transformation. Both drivers' lives have been significantly impacted, yet they have found a way to adapt through ride-hailing—a transitional profession that has allowed them to stabilize and begin anew.

Interview Date:  2023.9.24 Interview Location:  Emergency Department Waiting Area, Beijing Medical University Third Hospital This interview is part of the CTB doctor-patient relationship program (RDFZ Medical Innovation Team) In this interview, I spoke with a man in his 40s, whose father was admitted to the emergency department at Peking University Third Hospital due to gastrointestinal bleeding. The family’s experience, particularly the interviewee’s confidence in the medical team and detailed understanding of his father’s condition, offered valuable insights into how trust is built in critical care settings. His background in a family with strong ties to healthcare influenced his perspective, and he shared a balanced view on the challenges and strengths of the hospital system. A Critical Diagnosis and Treatment Path The father’s situation was dire, with continuous bleeding that required multiple blood transfusions. The interviewee had a strong grasp of his father’s condition, noting the specifics of his blood clotting levels. "Yesterday his clotting time was 64 seconds, but today it’s already down to 30 seconds," he explained. He also mentioned the improvement in his father’s INR (International Normalized Ratio) value, which had dropped from over 5 to 2.78. "The normal range should be between 1 and 2," he added, indicating that while his father’s condition was improving, there was still a risk due to ongoing bleeding. Despite this progress, the danger had not fully passed. "The doctor said they still need to monitor him in the rescue room because there’s a chance of a stroke or brain hemorrhage due to his blood clotting issues," he explained, emphasizing the uncertainty that still surrounded his father’s recovery. Since his father’s bleeding was in the stomach lining, a gastroscopy was not an option at the moment, and the focus was on stabilizing the condition. "We can only rely on his body’s ability to stop the bleeding on its own," he said. Medical Background and Understanding the Process The interviewee’s knowledge of medical terms and procedures came from a family background steeped in healthcare. "My family is full of doctors—my aunt is a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, and my dad worked for Health Newspaper . My other aunt is a graduate advisor in acupuncture," he explained, hinting at why he could follow the doctors’ explanations closely. This familiarity with medical concepts helped him maintain a level-headed approach during his father’s treatment, allowing him to navigate the situation with more confidence than the average patient’s family member might. Transfer Between Hospitals and Emergency Experience The family’s journey to Peking University Third Hospital wasn’t without its challenges. Initially, his father had been misdiagnosed due to confusion over his neurological state. "At first, because my father was a bit out of it, they thought it was something neurological, so we were transferred between several hospitals," he shared. They first went to a hospital specializing in neurological treatments but quickly realized it wasn’t equipped to handle the gastrointestinal issue. "They took him to Hui Long Guan Hospital first, then Peking University International, but they didn’t have the right equipment to stop the bleeding, so we ended up here," he explained, noting that the decision to transfer between hospitals delayed treatment but was ultimately necessary. Once they arrived at Peking University Third Hospital, the experience improved. "The doctors here know what they’re doing, especially with critical patients," he said. He felt that the hospital's specialization in complex cases provided a sense of security. Family’s Financial Situation and Medical Costs When asked about the financial burden of the treatment, the interviewee explained that his family was fortunate to have strong insurance coverage. "We don’t have too much of a problem with the costs because my dad’s insurance covers 95%," he said, noting that his father’s work history with Health Newspaper  allowed them to receive high levels of reimbursement. He acknowledged that for others, especially those without such coverage, the situation could be much more financially stressful. "For us, the insurance takes care of most of it, so we only pay a small portion," he added. The interviewee also mentioned their decision to rent a bed in the family waiting area. "We rented this temporary bed because you can’t leave the hospital for too long. You never know what might happen," he said. He laughed when asked if he could sleep well on the rented bed. "If you’ve got a big heart, you can sleep. But, of course, there are nights you just can’t rest," he admitted, hinting at the stress that comes with a family member in critical condition. Overall Satisfaction with the Care Despite the challenges, the interviewee expressed overall satisfaction with the care his father had received. "I think the medical system in Beijing is still top-notch. That’s why even people from outside the city want to come here for treatment," he explained, acknowledging that while the hospital was crowded, the quality of care was what mattered most. When asked about the doctors’ attitude and communication, he praised their professionalism. "The doctors explain things clearly. If you don’t understand something, they’re willing to explain it further," he said. He was understanding when mentioning that the doctors might appear blunt at times. "I get it—they’re busy, and sometimes they’re too tired to sugarcoat things. But they’re still professional," he said, expressing empathy for the medical staff’s workload. Comparing Hospitals and Final Thoughts Interestingly, the interviewee mentioned that while Peking University Third Hospital was excellent, Peking University International Hospital also left a strong impression. "If you want top-tier hardware and service, go to Peking University International," he suggested, noting that while the hospital leaned more towards private healthcare, the service and speed were unparalleled. "Last time, we spent 57,000 yuan on a stay there, but insurance covered most of it. It’s definitely more expensive, especially if you want a private room, but the level of care is amazing," he recalled. Key Takeaways Medical Expertise and Facilities:  The interviewee was highly satisfied with the hospital’s ability to handle complex cases like his father’s, noting the availability of specialized equipment and skilled staff. Doctor-Patient Communication:  He appreciated the doctors’ explanations and willingness to answer questions, while also acknowledging that the busy environment sometimes made interactions feel more rushed. Financial Relief Through Insurance:  Thanks to his father’s insurance covering 95% of the medical costs, the family was able to focus more on the treatment and less on the financial burden. Comparing Hospital Experiences:  While satisfied with Peking University Third Hospital, the interviewee also spoke highly of Peking University International Hospital, emphasizing its advanced facilities and quicker service. This interview paints a picture of a family that, despite the stress of a critical medical situation, felt reassured and confident in the care provided by Peking University Third Hospital. The interviewee’s familiarity with the medical system and his ability to communicate with the doctors played a significant role in creating a sense of trust and understanding, highlighting the importance of clear communication and specialized care in easing the patient’s journey.

As I stood chatting with a funeral worker near the emergency room at Peking University Third Hospital, a 70-year-old grandfather approached and joined our conversation. His family member had been admitted to the emergency room due to a severe cold and fever, and he offered his reflections on the hospital experience while waiting for updates on his loved one’s condition. Waiting for a Hospital Bed I asked him about his family member’s current situation, and he explained, "The doctor said they’re giving him an IV inside and waiting for a bed to open in the main ward." The patient’s condition seemed stable, but they couldn’t leave until the treatment was completed. "If we can’t transfer to the ward, we can’t go home until he’s fully recovered." Overnight Vigil and Hospital Procedures When I asked if he had to stay overnight, he nodded, "Yes, but the announcements usually stop after 1 a.m., so it's quieter at night." The hospital’s broadcast system called families in whenever they needed to handle fees or updates. "This isn't like being admitted to the hospital where you pay a deposit. In the emergency room, you pay for each treatment separately, so you have to listen for the announcements." Payment and Medical Procedures I asked about the payment process and whether it was possible to see the patient without paying. He shook his head, explaining, "No, you can only go in when they call for you. The doctor puts the paperwork on the table, and you take it to pay, then bring the medicine back to give to the doctors." I asked why the family had to bring the medicine, and he clarified, "In the emergency room, they don’t know what medicines are needed until the doctor prescribes them. So, we pay each time, unlike in the main ward where you pay a deposit and they handle everything." Frequent Visits to the Emergency Room When I asked how often he had been called into the emergency room over the past two days, he replied, "Four or five times. Sometimes you can sneak a quick glance at the patient if the doctor isn’t paying attention, but you can’t ask them to let you in." Satisfaction with Medical Care I was curious about his opinion of the doctors. He smiled and said, "The doctors here are pretty good. I think Peking University Third Hospital is very responsible." Reflections on the Hospital System While the grandfather expressed satisfaction with the care and responsibility of the medical staff, he also revealed some confusion over the hospital’s procedures. He didn’t fully understand why each emergency room procedure required a separate payment, or why families had to constantly listen for announcements, unlike in the main ward where a deposit was required, and everything was handled more seamlessly. Conclusion This interview offers insight into the experiences of a patient’s family member navigating the emergency care system. While the grandfather trusted the doctors and appreciated their work, the hospital's payment process and family involvement in retrieving medicine created some confusion and frustration. His story highlights the complexity of emergency care procedures and the emotional strain of waiting while balancing administrative responsibilities.

Date:  September 24, 2023 Location:  Outside the Emergency Room at Peking University Third Hospital Standing near the doors of the emergency room at Peking University Third Hospital, I encountered someone I hadn’t expected—a funeral worker. At first, I mistook him for the relative of a recently admitted patient, but it quickly became clear that he was there for a different reason. He was part of a funeral services company, present at the hospital to offer services in the unfortunate event of a death. Our conversation revealed an aspect of hospital life that often remains hidden—the quiet presence of those managing death behind the scenes. An Unseen Job at the Hospital Curious about his role, I asked, "You’re not a family member—who are you?" He responded, "I work in the funeral business. When someone passes away, we handle the arrangements, like dressing the deceased." He explained that his job often involves walking around the hospital, not only waiting for a call but also speaking to families who might need their services. I asked if there was a death in the emergency room that day. He replied, "No, I'm just walking around. I'm here a lot. Sometimes the families approach us if they need help." The Process of Handling Death at the Hospital When I asked how the deceased were removed from the emergency room, he confirmed, "Yes, when someone dies in the emergency room, they’re taken out through this door, and then moved to the morgue." I was curious about his work routine and asked, "Do you spend the whole day here?" He shook his head, "No, I’m not the only one. We’re part of a company, and there are people stationed at almost all the big hospitals. During the pandemic, we were very busy because, unfortunately, many people passed away." I probed a bit more, asking if he could share any details about how often people pass away in the hospital. He hesitated, "The frequency varies, and it’s not something we’re really allowed to discuss. Hospitals don’t usually want people to know how many deaths occur in a month." Connecting with Families in Need I asked how he and his company connected with the families of the deceased. He explained, "Sometimes it’s through hospital staff, like the aides. We don’t have formal partnerships with the hospital, but we’ve built relationships over time. We know many of the people who work here, and if a family needs help, they might talk to us." He emphasized that they strive to offer affordable services, explaining, "There are a lot of individual service providers who charge more, but we try to keep our prices reasonable for the families. Our service, whether it’s dressing the deceased or other arrangements, is meant to be affordable and high-quality." A Different View of the Hospital As our conversation continued, the funeral worker offered a piece of advice when he noticed I was there to speak with patient families: "There was just an ambulance that brought someone in, and the family is over there on the bench. But it looks like it’s a very urgent case, so you might want to reconsider approaching them right now." Conclusion and Reflections This brief but revealing conversation provided an entirely different view of the hospital—a place not just for healing, but also where the realities of death are quietly handled by professionals in the background. The funeral worker’s calm, matter-of-fact demeanor reflected the sobering nature of his work. Though his role wasn’t part of my original project focused on patient-family interactions, it offered an important perspective on how hospitals must manage both life and death. His comments also reminded me of the sensitive balance between patient care and privacy, as hospitals often avoid disclosing the number of deaths that occur within their walls. Even so, the presence of funeral workers like him—who interact with families in their most difficult moments—speaks to the delicate ecosystem that supports people through all stages of life, including its end. This interview sheds light on the less visible aspects of hospital operations and the individuals who play a vital role in providing dignity to the deceased, while maintaining compassion for the grieving families.

Date:  September 24, 2023 Location:  Emergency Hall, Peking University Third Hospital While in the emergency hall at Peking University Third Hospital, I observed a heated exchange between the family of a patient and the hospital staff. Curious about the underlying issues, I decided to speak with the 120 emergency doctor who had brought the patient in. Our conversation shed light on the challenges faced in emergency care, particularly when patient expectations clash with the realities of medical resource allocation. The Conflict: Prioritization and Military Veterans The patient, a car accident victim, needed surgery. However, the hospital informed the family that three other patients with similar conditions were ahead in line. This caused frustration, as the family believed the patient, a retired military veteran, should be given priority. The doctor explained, "The family insists that, as a veteran, he should get priority treatment, which is why the conflict started." The family wasn’t just upset about waiting—they were also considering moving the patient to 301 Military Hospital, believing it would provide faster care. "They’re in contact with 301, but through our radio, we found out 301 doesn’t have any emergency beds available either," the doctor added. She emphasized the confusion that arises when families try to seek treatment at well-known hospitals, without understanding the constraints of bed availability. "Right now, they’re waiting for further coordination," she said, highlighting how these situations often get stuck in logistical bottlenecks. Family Expectations and Emotional Strain When I asked about her broader experiences with patient families, the doctor recounted a striking incident from her previous job in a hospital. "There was one patient who refused to follow medical advice—he smoked, didn’t eat properly, and eventually passed away. His family couldn’t accept it. They smashed our office, tried to attack us, and demanded explanations," she recalled. In this case, the patient’s second son, who had been away and had been drinking, was particularly aggressive. "He couldn’t handle it, especially since he had been away for a while, and things escalated quickly." These conflicts, she explained, often stem from a lack of understanding or acceptance of medical realities. "Even when you explain everything clearly, some families won’t listen or can’t process the information. We told them the risks, explained the patient’s kidney issues, but they didn’t understand how that could lead to death." The Battle Between Proximity and Prestige Another common issue the doctor highlighted was the preference of families for prestigious hospitals, even when they’re farther away. "Just the other day, a family insisted on bringing their patient here to Peking University Third Hospital, despite my recommendation to go to a nearby hospital," she explained. "They believed this hospital was the best, but even after arriving, they couldn’t get the patient admitted right away because of the wait." This situation, she said, often leads to frustration and delays in treatment. "They won’t even let you finish explaining that it’s better to go to the nearest hospital in these cases," she added, noting that families sometimes prioritize the hospital’s reputation over practicality, even in life-threatening situations. Misunderstanding Costs and Ambulance Wait Times We also discussed the confusion surrounding ambulance wait times and costs. "If we have to wait too long without handing the patient over, we start charging for the time, but we always explain this to the family first," the doctor clarified. "In this case, the family was informed, but there’s often misunderstanding about why the charges apply." The family’s frustration in these cases isn’t just about the costs—it’s often compounded by the stress of not knowing when the patient will be admitted or transferred to another facility. "If a hospital can’t admit the patient right away, the family might feel like they’re stuck in limbo, and that’s when tensions rise," she said. Grind of Emergency Work When I asked about her work schedule, the doctor gave a glimpse into the exhausting nature of the job. "We work rotating shifts—day shifts from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and night shifts from 5 p.m. to 8 a.m. the next day," she explained. "We switch between day and night shifts regularly, and it takes a toll. It’s hard to adjust, and it’s physically exhausting." Despite the grueling nature of the work, she mentioned that the pay isn’t particularly high. "Our pay is based on kilometers traveled, like a taxi fare, but just a bit more expensive." Technical Challenges of Emergency Procedures We also touched on the technical aspects of emergency medical procedures. When responding to a cardiac arrest, she explained, "CPR isn’t done by just one person—there are always at least two of us alternating. It’s a team effort." In some cases, they can perform advanced procedures like intubation. However, she explained that sometimes, if they’re close to the hospital, they may opt for basic resuscitation measures. "If we’re close to the hospital, we might not do the intubation, but if the patient has no breath or pulse, we can proceed." I was curious if they had equipment like automated CPR machines, which I’d seen in some emergency response videos. "No, we don’t have those. Only the central stations have them," she said. Dealing with Patients Without Family I asked how they handle situations where a patient doesn’t have family present. "If we can’t find family members on the scene, we take the patient to the nearest hospital and leave it to the hospital to contact the family. The most important thing is to get the patient treated as quickly as possible," she explained. The priority is always the patient’s life, even if it means taking on the responsibility of locating their family later. Key Takeaways from the Doctor’s Experience From this conversation, several important points emerged about the relationship between patients’ families and emergency medical staff: Prioritization Policies:  The lack of clarity around policies for prioritizing military veterans and other patients can lead to misunderstandings and conflict. Proximity vs. Reputation:  Families often prefer sending patients to renowned hospitals, even when it may not be practical or beneficial in urgent cases. Handling Death:  Some families struggle to accept the sudden death of a loved one, leading to emotional outbursts that can escalate into violent incidents. Ambulance Waiting Charges:  Families may not fully understand why they’re being charged for waiting times, leading to further tension in an already stressful situation. Conclusion The interview with the 120 emergency doctor highlighted the many challenges faced by medical professionals when dealing with families in crisis. Misunderstandings about hospital policies, proximity-based decision-making, and emotional reactions to patient outcomes all contribute to the complexity of the job. Despite these difficulties, the doctor’s commitment to patient care was clear, and her perspective emphasized the importance of clear communication and empathy when navigating these high-pressure situations.

Date:  September 24, 2023 Location:  Family Waiting Area, Emergency Department, Peking University Third Hospital The Family's Background I had the opportunity to interview a young couple in their 20s, who had rushed overnight from Datong, Shanxi, to Beijing after the woman's younger brother, a 22-year-old, fell critically ill due to an infection. The brother had caught a cold at work, which progressed into septic shock, and the family was now by his side, managing his care as best as they could. Both are farmers, and they’ve been taking turns looking after him. The Patient's Journey Through the Hospital Since arriving, the patient's condition was dire. He was diagnosed with septic shock—a severe infection affecting multiple organs. His heart rate was high, blood pressure low, and his fever was persistent. The doctors immediately started him on fluids and antibiotics. By today, his condition had begun to stabilize; his heart rate had dropped, his fever had reduced, although it hadn't fully normalized. The family, although still worried, felt more at ease compared to the previous days when they were overwhelmed with fear. Insights into Communication with the Doctors The family had gathered quite a detailed understanding of the brother’s condition. The interviewee attributed this to the transparency of the medical staff. “When the doctor calls us in to sign for medicine or pay the bills, we use the opportunity to ask questions, and the doctors explain things clearly.” They recounted how scary the diagnosis had been at first, with the medical team warning them that all organs were affected, including the kidneys, and that he wasn’t producing urine. This had been a shocking moment, but today, after seeing improvement, the family’s spirits had lifted significantly. The Cost of Care For the family, financial concerns were very real. With the brother not being covered by Beijing’s health insurance, most of the emergency care had to be paid out-of-pocket. “It’s about 6,000 to 7,000 yuan a day, and today we’ve spent 4,000 yuan,” the interviewee said. Despite the costs, they felt reassured now that they could see progress. Challenges in the Care Process A major challenge was having only two family members to manage everything. “It’s hard—if you go to the bathroom or grab a bite, the doctors might call you in, and you can’t miss that.” With both coming from a farming background, other family members couldn't come to help as they were occupied back home. The added stress was compounded by their need to care for a 4-year-old child who remained in Shanxi. The interviewee was particularly grateful for the hospital’s waiting area. “We can rent beds here, which is really convenient—only 40 yuan a night, cheaper than staying in a hotel.” This provision allowed them to stay close by in case of emergencies, a service they appreciated, noting that other hospitals they’d been to did not offer this. Expectations vs Reality The family’s mindset about treatment was clear: the cost of care comes with the expectation of results. "You spend money, you expect the condition to improve." This outlook was central to their perception of the hospital experience. Had the brother not shown signs of recovery, the family’s emotions and views could have been very different. While talking, the interviewee reflected on the experience they had at another hospital, Fu Wai, where their brother had previously undergone heart surgery for a ventricular septal defect. That surgery, though successful at first, had complications, with post-operative issues leading to further setbacks. The family wasn’t sure if the problem was due to the doctor or the patient’s health, but there was an underlying assumption that proper surgery should result in full recovery. Concluding Thoughts Overall, the family expressed satisfaction with the care provided by Peking University Third Hospital, especially since the patient’s condition was improving. They were impressed with the speed and professionalism of the medical team and noted that the attitude of the doctors and nurses was commendable, particularly compared to their past experience at other hospitals. The availability of rental beds and the frequent updates from the doctors had helped ease the tension and anxiety they initially felt. However, they also expressed some concerns, particularly about the lack of clear communication regarding what hospitals and emergency services are covered by insurance. The need for greater transparency and communication between healthcare providers and patients' families, especially around complex medical procedures and insurance issues, was apparent throughout the interview. Takeaways from the Family's Perspective Hospital Response Speed:  The family was satisfied with the hospital’s prompt actions in the emergency department, noting that doctors were quick to administer treatments. Doctor’s Attitude:  They appreciated the openness of the medical staff, although noted that doctors sometimes communicated in a direct manner, likely due to the stressful environment. Medical Expertise:  The family had confidence in the doctors’ abilities, seeing tangible improvements in the patient’s health. Hospital Services:  They praised the hospital for its system of renting beds, allowing them to stay close by for any sudden changes in the patient’s condition. Cost of Care:  While acknowledging the high costs, the family seemed to accept it given the improvement in the patient’s condition.

Time: July 5, 2023, 19:30-20:30 Location: Northeast Exit B, Haidian Huangzhuang Metro Station Event Background After finishing my study session and heading to the metro, I noticed two elderly men sitting against the wall of the subway corridor. They appeared to be migrant workers, prompting me to slow down as I passed. After a moment, I turned around and decided to strike up a conversation. “Uncles, are you sitting here to escape the heat? I’m a student and would like to know more about your lives,” I said, being direct and candid. The two men were warm and friendly, smiling as they answered my questions, and I gradually shifted from standing to sitting down to chat with them. Basic Information The two men, both around 67 years old, shared that they had come from a small village in Luoyang, Henan, to work in Beijing as greenery workers in a municipal greening team. After a long day at work, they came to the nearby metro station to cool off since their dormitory lacked air conditioning. They worked from 6:30 AM to 11:30 AM, took a two-hour break for lunch, and then returned to work from 1:30 PM until 6:30 PM, earning 100 yuan a day. I was taken aback when they mentioned their daily wage; it felt shockingly low for the strenuous outdoor work they performed. Previously, when chatting with rideshare and taxi drivers, they mentioned earning at least 300 to 600 yuan daily. Based on their 100 yuan daily wage, I calculated that their monthly income would be around 3,000 yuan, which aligns with Beijing's minimum wage standard (2320 yuan). Despite their challenging conditions, the two men described their lives without any signs of hardship, maintaining a positive and cheerful demeanor as they spoke. Reasons for Working Initially, I assumed that people who migrate for work did so primarily to earn money to support themselves and their families. However, these two men surprised me with their perspective. One uncle explained that while they could earn some money, it was more about staying active. He emphasized that there wasn’t much to do in their village anymore; farming had become tedious, and time dragged on slowly. Working in Beijing allowed them to exercise and make the day feel fulfilling. Unexpectedly, one uncle pointed out that 70% of Beijing is green space, and parks are abundant, showing his awareness of the value of their work. He understood that their efforts contributed to the city's greenery, revealing a sense of professional pride I hadn’t anticipated from this demographic. How They Spend Their Earnings With a monthly income of around 3,000 yuan, the company provided meals and accommodation, leaving little spending money. The two men mentioned that their only expenses were a few packs of cigarettes and some alcohol. I asked how they managed the remaining money, and they shared that they would send it home or give it to their grandchildren as New Year gifts. When I inquired why, at their age, their children didn’t support them financially so they wouldn’t have to work, they explained that their niece was already married, and they were content, wanting their children to focus on their own lives. They also reiterated that working kept them from feeling bored and was more enjoyable than idleness. Their spending habits reflected their deep familial ties, as their focus was entirely on supporting their family rather than on personal indulgences. This highlights the profound significance of “home” in Chinese culture. Positive Outlook on Life Throughout our conversation, both men maintained smiles and never voiced any negative feelings or complaints. Despite their challenging lives, they displayed a remarkable love for life. This shattered my preconceived notions of the migrant worker demographic, which I had assumed would be filled with grievances about their situations. Earning the lowest wage and doing physically demanding work, they remained optimistic and content. They seemed to embody a carefree existence, enjoying their time chatting in the subway station after work. In this sense, their happiness appeared to surpass that of many younger individuals with higher salaries. I was left wondering if my sudden appearance had delighted them or if they had grown accustomed to their seemingly tough but simple lives. Their demeanor radiated a genuine love for life and satisfaction with their current circumstances.

Interview location: Family waiting area of the emergency room, a major hospital in Beijing Date: March 26, 2023, evening In the corner of the waiting area, a woman in her thirties sat with her family, waiting anxiously for news about her father. Their silence spoke volumes, prompting me to inquire about their hospital experience. Q: Can you tell me about the patient’s condition?Interviewee: “My dad suddenly felt unwell and vomited blood the night before last. We rushed him here by ambulance. The doctors said it was serious and immediately categorized it as a high-priority emergency. He’s been undergoing various tests since he arrived, but they still can’t determine the cause. Many of the test results will take a week to come back, and he’s still not out of danger.” As she spoke, she wiped away tears, and we both took a moment to absorb the gravity of the situation. Q: Has your father been in the emergency room this whole time? Are you staying here with him?Interviewee: “Yes, the hospital requires a family member to wait outside the emergency room. The announcements you hear, like ‘Please have the family of XXX come to the emergency room,’ are usually just for picking up test results or making payments. They call quite frequently—every few minutes—so you really have to pay attention, as you might be called in at any moment. After we paid the deposit, the calls to enter decreased since they deduct the exam fees from that.” Q: How has your experience been in this hospital’s emergency department?Interviewee: “Overall, it’s okay, but the attitude of the doctors and nurses isn’t great. They don’t ask clear questions about his symptoms and offer little explanation. It’s mostly just about taking the payment and handling the paperwork. We can’t accompany him into the rescue room, and there’s no visiting allowed. Even when we are called in, it’s just to pick up forms at a small counter. There’s no opportunity to go inside.” Personal Reflection I find it understandable that the family is experiencing anxiety and concern given the seriousness of the patient's condition and the uncertainty surrounding its cause. The hospital's policies—like no visiting in the emergency room and the frequent need to make payments—are likely established for various reasons. However, the interviewee’s feedback about poor communication and attitudes highlights a significant issue in patient care. For family members, waiting 24 hours outside the emergency room is excruciating. Listening for announcements is a constant source of stress, as they have no way of knowing if they’re being called in for payment or if there’s a sudden change in their loved one’s condition. That door separating them from the emergency room could represent a final farewell. I sincerely hope for the patient's swift recovery and stability.

Interview location: Family waiting area of the emergency room, a major hospital in Beijing Date: March 26, 2023, evening While I was chatting with my previous interviewee, an elderly grandmother overheard the mention of my school, Renmin University High School ICC, and eagerly joined our conversation. Her emotions ran high as she spoke with me for about an hour, passionately expressing her thoughts. Before I could even ask a question, she began to speak. Grandmother: “What does this scene remind you of?”  she asked, gesturing toward the entrance of the emergency room. “To me, it looks like something straight out of a play. There’s nothing subtle about it. Three meters from the door, there are four large payment windows—almost as if they were designed specifically for this space. Sometimes, I feel awkward just sitting here. The loudspeaker keeps calling for us to pick up documents and pay the bills. Honestly, if you don’t pay, they’ll stop the treatment immediately. Every step, every treatment, it's all about ‘paying money and pulling strings.’ The money collection system is so convenient, yet all other treatments and tests are incredibly complicated.” She sighed deeply, pausing only briefly before continuing. “You’re young. You’re seeing all of this now, and I hope you can make a difference. Our country is the second largest economy in the world, but we still have a system where it’s ‘pay before you’re treated.’ There’s no such thing as getting treated first and paying later. You see this?”  she asked, pointing around her, “This shouldn’t be happening.” What if a family member misses the announcement to pay? I asked her. “Then the treatment inside will stop until the payment is made,”  she replied. “They’ll keep announcing it until you hear and pay. Only then will they continue.” Does insurance cover any of this? I inquired, trying to understand the situation more. “Insurance covers part of it,”  she said, “but I still spend 10,000 yuan a day in the emergency room. Big bills—two of them alone were 8,000. My mother had two blood filtration procedures, but the rest, I can’t even remember. Each bill is at least in the hundreds, and some of my insurance doesn’t apply here because it’s tied to a lower-tier hospital.” She paused again before adding, “I’ve heard that in Japan, citizens get 5,000 yuan directly for treatment, and they don’t need personal caregivers. But here, the caregiver fees alone cost 9,000 yuan a month, 300 yuan a day, and that’s not covered by insurance.” Have you ever witnessed someone’s treatment being stopped because they couldn’t pay? “I haven’t personally seen it,”  she said, “but when a person is on the verge of dying, the whole family will likely sell everything they have to pay. You wouldn’t easily see someone unable to pay in a situation like that. If they can’t afford it, they might just give up on treatment altogether.” How do you feel about the doctors here? I asked gently. “They can only handle typical cases,”  she replied. “If the patient’s condition is even slightly unusual, they don’t consider it. They give you a vague explanation, and it feels like they’re just going through the motions. Honestly, they’re like skilled workers. Train me for three months, and I could do the same job,”  she laughed bitterly. “I may be a humanities student, but I know enough. Their judgments? Not reliable at all.” Could you give me an example? I probed further. “Sure,”  she nodded. “After my mother had her blood filtration, she passed some blood in her stool. The doctors immediately said it was a gastrointestinal bleed. Ridiculous! It wasn’t that—it was because the blood filtration wasn’t done properly. Too much fluid was removed. For someone her weight, it should have been no more than 1.2 liters, but they took 3.3 liters out. At first, they admitted it was 3.3, but then they reduced the number to 2.3. The doctors just wouldn’t acknowledge their mistake. They wanted to treat her as if it was a gastrointestinal bleed. I argued with them until they finally gave in and didn’t administer the unnecessary medication.” Was that the opinion of your primary doctor or a specialist? “Just the primary doctor,”  she replied. “There’s been no specialist consultation because they’re too busy.” The conversation flowed freely as the grandmother continued, expressing her frustrations and anxieties. She had been at the hospital for five days, rotating shifts with her husband to stay by her mother’s side. She reflected on her mother’s illness. “She’s been sick for two years,”  the grandmother said. “The first time she was here, she was in the ICU for 60 days. Then, we went to another hospital for dialysis, but she developed breathing difficulties, and we rushed back here.” Her voice trembled with emotion. “I know my mother’s condition better than these doctors. They just handle the surface-level emergencies—stabilizing breathing, adjusting blood pressure. It’s all just basic first-aid skills. If I had the equipment, I could do it myself.” In those quiet moments, the grandmother shared her views on life and death. “When the end is near,”  she said softly, “we should have the courage to say goodbye to the world on our own terms. I think being at home, in peace, in a room by yourself, is better than going through the agony of tubes and machines. At least you can signal to those around you what you need, and someone will respond. That’s the way it should be.” As our conversation came to an end, she left me with one last piece of advice, “If you ever get a chance to contribute to society, to improve healthcare, do it. That’s the most important work anyone could do.” In those moments, I saw a grandmother, not just waiting for news of her ailing mother, but fiercely determined to improve the system that seemed so impersonal and mechanical. Her words carried both frustration and hope for a future where healthcare could be more humane, more compassionate, and less of a transactional burden. Reflecting on this encounter, I was moved by her resilience. It’s easy to dismiss her frustrations as harsh or overly critical, but beneath her words lay a deeper truth—our healthcare system, while advanced in many ways, still has a long way to go. Her concerns may reflect just one story, but they echo the voices of countless others. I hope her mother finds peace and recovery, and that her words inspire change in the hearts of those who can make it happen.

The interviewee, a man in his sixties, caught my attention as he sat beside his mother, who was resting on a makeshift military cot in the hallway. This was the only bed in sight, highlighting their predicament. Interview location: Emergency room hallway, a major hospital in Beijing Date: March 26, 2023, evening Q: Can you tell me about the patient’s condition? Interviewee: “My mother started feeling abdominal pain and had difficulty with bowel movements ten days ago. We rushed her here, as it’s close to our home. Initially, she was placed in emergency internal medicine, but the doctor soon transferred her to emergency surgery. The transition was quick, within ten minutes. The diagnosis was intestinal obstruction. She was on continuous IV fluids for two days, but her condition doesn’t meet the criteria for hospitalization. So, I rented this military cot, and every eight hours, I carry her to the IV room for treatment. Hopefully, she’ll be discharged in a few days.” Q: It sounds like the treatment process has gone smoothly? Interviewee: “Yes, the hospital has a priority policy for elderly patients. My mother arrived in the emergency room at 10 PM and saw a doctor within ten minutes. The transfer to a different department was quick too. However, some staff members were not very friendly, but overall, it was manageable.” Q: Why can’t she rest at home instead of lying in the hallway? Interviewee: “We live right in the nearby community. Although the eight-hour intervals for IV fluids sound long, it’s not really that bad. Moving her around is hard on her body. I have to pick up prescriptions, make payments, collect medications, and queue for the IV room. Every time I move her from the cot to the recliner in the IV room and back again, it takes about two hours. It would be even more exhausting to go home.” Q: Why can’t you administer IV fluids by the bedside?Interviewee: “The nurses in the IV room can monitor the patients. If something goes wrong, who is responsible? The nurse? The hospital? Or the family? It’s a hassle every time I wheel her over, especially since the cot won’t fit through the door. The chairs are only reclined, and it’s cramped. Honestly, for such a large hospital, funding shouldn’t be an issue; they should expand and improve the facilities.” Q: How was the IV process itself? Interviewee: “It’s been okay. My mother has had so many IVs, but sometimes new nurses have trouble finding veins and need several tries. I understand; everyone has to learn, and practice makes perfect in this skill.” As we spoke, another family member arrived with food for the elderly woman. They exchanged caring words as they prepared to feed her, bringing our interview to a natural conclusion. The conversation with the interviewee had been relatively relaxed, showcasing his appreciation for the doctors while also highlighting the shortcomings in patient experience. It’s evident that our healthcare system still has a long journey ahead to improve. Personal Reflections Hearing this man's experiences in the emergency room was both eye-opening and heart-wrenching. It’s unsettling to witness the realities of our healthcare system, particularly how it handles elderly patients. The idea of a mother lying on a cot in a crowded hallway instead of receiving proper care in a room feels emblematic of larger systemic issues. His resilience, despite the challenges, struck a chord with me. It’s a reminder of the love and commitment that family members often show during times of crisis. Yet, it also underscores the urgent need for systemic reform—whether it’s improving hospital facilities or ensuring that all patients receive the dignity and respect they deserve during their treatment. This interview has reinforced my belief that our healthcare system must evolve to be more patient-centered, ensuring that compassion and comfort are just as important as medical expertise.

This is the starter point of iNeon Social Responsibility Organization. It is from here that iNeon continue its journey to 12 schools in Beijing, Yunan, and Gansu province. Together with my friends, we embarked on an enlightening journey to Yunnan, where we shared ideas and inspired each other through a series of lectures. This trip was more than just traveling through a beautiful region—it became a platform for deep discussions, new perspectives, and a mutual exchange of knowledge and experiences. Through our presentations and conversations, we grew both personally and intellectually, making this trip an unforgettable experience of learning and inspiration.

On December 29, 2022, I visited the emergency rooms of three hospitals in Beijing and was deeply moved by the hard work of the healthcare workers. Inspired to do something for them, I decided to buy two shopping carts full of snacks to give to them. This video captures the entire process of fundraising, shopping, and delivering the snacks. In the end, I visited 10 hospitals, and 6 of them accepted my "New Year's gift." Seeing the healthcare workers encouraged and uplifted gave me a great sense of accomplishment! I believe that with the tireless efforts of these healthcare workers, the pandemic will eventually come to an end, and spring will surely arrive! Special thanks to my mom, Tian Dada, and Aunt Liu Fang for providing invaluable financial support. Thanks to my dad for driving me to the emergency rooms. Happy New Year to everyone! This video was filmed between December 29, 2022, and January 2, 2023.