The Minister Of Health Warns Hospitals Demanding Covid-19 Clearance Certificates From Patients
Vice President Chiwenga warned hospitals that are demanding Covid-19 clearance certificates from patients seeking medical services.
The turning away of patients without Covid-19 clearance certificates is reportedly happening across the country at both private and public hospitals.
Covid-19 tests in public institutions are for free whilst in private sectors, the PCR tests are very expensive which cost from US$20 and US$65
VP Chiwenga was recently assigned as the new Minister of Health in order to stabilize the ministry of health which is currently getting a bad rep.
Speaking during a tour of the Bulawayo Kraal Irrigation Scheme in Binga, 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.
The newly appointed Minister of Health said the government would soon be demanding answers on why hospitals are turning people away and some charging exorbitant fees for tests.
“No one has authority or right to turn away any person seeking help and we will be taking tough measures,” he said.
VP Chiwenga said hospitals should not try to capitalize the Covid-19 pandemic at the expense of people’s lives
He went on to say that the government is in the process of buying more PPE and testing kits.
“Let’s work together, Government on its part is buying more equipment, PPE and PCR test kits,” ..
