In Mawlamyine, Mon State, individuals with first hand experience report that some private hospitals are pressuring patients to undergo operations and then demand very high fees.
Whether people go to private hospitals for treatment or for medical check-ups, doctors are pressuring them to have operations. Depending on the type of operation, the cost can exceed 10 million kyats, said a female patient who experienced this situation firsthand in Thanbyuzayat village.
“Most people come to the hospital because they are sick or just for a check-up. The doctors say the only solution is an operation. They pressure patients and charge exorbitant fees. Patients feel they have no choice because they are afraid their condition will get worse if they refuse,” she said.
The doctors not only pressure patients to undergo an operation but also imply that their health could be at risk if they refuse.
“If you refuse, the doctors may exaggerate your illness. Even patients who don’t need an operation may end up staying in the hospital for five days, costing about 10 to 20 million kyats,” she added.
The practice of charging fair and reasonable medical fees for safe and reliable medical treatment is becoming less common, according to those visiting private health clinics. Due to rising livelihood costs, the addition of high medical expenses, is moving some Mon residents to seek medical treatment at public hospitals.
