VICE-President Dr Constantino Chiwenga has warned hospitals which are demanding Covid-19 clearance certificates from people seeking medical services as well as those capitalising on the global pandemic to charge exorbitant fees saying Government will soon take corrective action.
The turning away of patients without Covid-19 clearance certificates is reportedly happening across the country at both private and public hospitals.
A Covid-19 test certificate is beyond the reach of many as PCR test cost between US$20 and US$65 at private institutions while at public institutions it’s free for people identified during contact tracing.
VP Chiwenga, who was recently appointed Health and Child Care Minister, also promised a new era in the country’s healthcare system, saying there would be massive restructuring of the health sector.
The Vice-President was recently assigned an additional task of taking charge of the Health Ministry which is under the spotlight because of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The country had by Wednesday recorded 122 Covid-19 deaths and 4 893 confirmed cases.
The country’s situation has been worsened by nurses that are on strike demanding better salaries.
Speaking during a tour of Bulawayo Kraal Irrigation Scheme in Binga on Thursday, VP Chiwenga said health institutions should prioritise the protection of human lives.
“Government is aware of some hospitals which are turning away patients seeking medical help by demanding Covid-19 test certificates.
Some hospitals are also taking advantage of the pandemic to charge exorbitant fees and we are saying that should stop,” he said.
Dr Chiwenga said Government will soon demand an explanation from hospitals which have been turning away patients or charging exorbitant fees.
“No one has authority or right to turn away any person seeking help and we will be taking tough measures,” he said.
Dr Chiwenga said hospitals should not take advantage of the Covid-19 pandemic to profiteer at the expense of people’s lives.
VP Chiwenga said Government is also in the process of procuring more PPE and testing kits.
“Let’s work together, Government on its part is buying more equipment, PPE and PCR test kits,” he said-Chronicle