• Death of a man after long wait in a public hospital in Canada
• Elon Musk criticizes slow and inefficient Canadian health system

Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and technology billionaire, criticized Canada’s healthcare system after the death of Prashant Sreekumar, a 44-year-old man of Indian origin, who waited more than eight hours to receive medical care in a public hospital.

According to reports, Sreekumar suffered severe chest pain and remained in the triage area from around 12:20 p.m. until 8:50 p.m. on December 22.

Despite his repeated complaints and a blood pressure reading of 210, he was only given a painkiller, and the staff reportedly ignored the severity of his condition.

When he was finally moved to the treatment area, he collapsed, and doctors were unable to save him.

His wife, Niharika, said in a video circulating on social media: "He was sitting in triage, complaining of persistent chest pain, and his blood pressure was rising… and they said chest pain is not considered an emergency."

His father, Kumar Sreekumar, added: "My son told me: 'Papa, I cannot bear the pain.' He described it as 15 out of 10."

Musk commented on X: "When the government provides healthcare, it is at the level of vehicle management," criticizing the Canadian system for being slow and inefficient in delivering care, and comparing it to the U.S. vehicle administration.

The hospital confirmed that the case is under review by the office of the chief medical examiner.

A spokesperson for the hospital said: "We extend our condolences to the patient’s family and friends. Nothing is more important than the safety and care of our patients and staff."

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs called on the Canadian government to take responsibility, emphasizing the seriousness of the incident.

Sreekumar leaves behind his wife and three children, aged 3, 10, and 14.

After finally being called to the treatment area, he collapsed within seconds. Nurses attempted resuscitation, but he died from sudden cardiac arrest.

His wife accused the hospital administration of negligence, describing the staff and security as ignoring his condition and failing to provide assistance during the emergency.