The Health Ministry has clarified that hospital fees and charges will only be paid by patients admitted in only the Paying Wards of the Colonial War Memorial Hospital, Lautoka, Labasa, Nadi and Savusavu hospitals.

Spokesperson Peni Namotu stressed that services at any public hospital is free and only those who have to pay include private patients referred to any hospital from private practitioners.

Namotu said there is confusion, misconceptions and misinterpretation by the general public and news mediums around the country on the introduction of the health charges from January 1st.

He confirmed Paying Ward patients and private patients will be required to pay for all hospital services in accordance with the new fee structure which was always the practice.

For maternity patients, payment of fees and charges is only applicable to patients admitted in any Paying Ward or paying Maternity Ward, otherwise all other patients in general maternity wards are not required to pay any fees.

Namotu said all dental services for 15-year-olds and above are to be paid in accordance with the new fee structure with the exception of Orthodontics and mouth guard treatment, which will be paid for by all age groups.

He added some amendments were undertaken on January 7th for initial changes and members of the public will be informed on the updates in due course.


Story by: Ronal Deo