The problem of private hospital doctor channel fees exceeding Rs 6000

The Professional Medical Trade Union Alliance for Medical and Civil Rights states that the general public seeking medical treatment is facing severe difficulties due to the channel fees of specialist doctors in many private sector hospitals exceeding the six thousand rupee limit. Dr. Chamal Sanjeewa, President of the Alliance and a specialist doctor, points out that patients are under severe pressure due to this situation.

The excessive tax burden imposed on professionals, including direct and indirect taxes, as well as taxes levied on private hospital services, have primarily contributed to this price increase. In addition, the rapidly rising electricity bill, fuel prices, and the increase in prices of other consumer goods and services have also led to a significant increase in specialist doctor fees.

Rural and semi-urban populations who turn to private hospitals due to the inability to obtain proper medical treatment from government hospitals are the most affected by this situation. In addition to channel fees, charges for private sector medical services, inpatient treatment fees, medicines, surgeries, and surgical equipment have also increased excessively. Especially for the general public who do not have any health insurance scheme, bearing these overall healthcare expenses has become a huge burden.

Although the Ministry of Health is responsible for properly regulating private sector medical services, specialist doctor Chamal Sanjeewa further points out that looking at the current situation, this regulatory process has slipped away from the Ministry of Health.