I was thinking the same thing. They changed things in the story and it just doesn't sit the same way anymore.…
They didn't introduce her cousin and her younger brother Xiao Xu as well. He plays an important part in the novel imo, being the reason Xiao Yan was sent to USA.
I'm surprised by Bai Zhu's animosity towards Xiao Yan. He was completely different in the novel and never underestimated her when she was first presented to the hospital. Maybe 'cause he was also in Afghanistan with her and witnessed how good of a doctor she is but I guess they decided to change that part too
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lfvRH-aHUzc&feature=share&utm_source=EJGixIgBCJiu2KjB4oSJEQ