By OBAKENG MAJE
Many patients in Vryburg raised questions over alleged smses they received from the Joe Morolong Memorial Hospital claiming that they owe the hospital. Some of the affected individuals alleged that they have never set foot at the hospital.
However, the Joe Morolong Memorial Hospital spokesperson, Kagiso Mbaiwa said, the hospital management is aware of that. Mbaiwa said the hospital has noted concerns and questions circulating on various social media platforms, regarding the hospital fees emanating from services rendered.
“This also includes outstanding payments through text messages that were sent to patients. It is imperative to note that the hospital billing system is guided by terms of Section 41- (1) and (2) of the National Health Act of 2003 and the Uniform Patient Fee Schedule (UPFS) tariffs by the Minister of Health.
“The hospital confirms that the text messages regarding outstanding payments are not a scam. Consultations are ongoing with relevant stakeholders to ensure that the correct hospital telephone number is updated on the system to avert confusion as these messages depict the old hospital name and telephone number,” he said.
Mbaiwa further said payments can be made at the provided banking details or at the hospital. He added that, for more information or clarity regarding the outstanding payments, the affected individuals can kindly liaise with the following hospital personnel, Zenovia Johnson on 053 928 9129, Sarah Longman on 053 928 9064 and Marie De Koker 053 928 9063.
“The hospital further advises that patients who cannot pay the outstanding balance at once, can make arrangements to pay the amount through instalment,” said Mbaiwa.
The Guardian 