Despite no medical referral, Üstel then opted to visit the Near East University Hospital, where he underwent laparoscopic closed biliary surgery on his gallbladder. His decision to proceed privately rather than through the state hospital sparked criticism, with Health Minister Hakan Dinçyürek stating that Üstel had been referred due to a lack of state equipment. However, doctors disputed this, affirming that they made no referral and noting that Üstel chose to go privately despite no immediate need.
