Foreign Patients Overwhelm KCH, Prompting Calls for Healthcare Levy
It remains to be seen whether authorities will heed these pleas and consider the introduction of a healthcare levy to address this complex issue.
LILONGWE, Malawi— As Kamuzu Central Hospital (KCH) grapples with challenges of low staffing, limited equipment, diagnostic materials, and space, another significant issue has emerged, and it's placing added strain on the healthcare system: foreign patients, writes Christopher Jimu.
The majority of these patients are referred to Malawi's largest hospital from districts bordering neighbouring countries.
Districts such as Ntcheu and Dedza, bordering Mozambique, and Mchinji, which shares its borders with Zambia, have been the primary sources of this influx.
Dr. Jonathan Ngoma, Director at KCH, expressed his concerns over the growing number of foreign patients, emphasizing the need for action.
"It's as if you've cooked food for your children, and the neighbours just come in to partake, even without being invited. The food will not last. We are managing many patients from Mozambique and others from Chipata and surrounding districts because Lilongwe is closer to them," lamented Dr. Ngoma.
This challenge is further exacerbated by Malawi's free healthcare system. Dr. Ngoma proposed the introduction of a hospital levy to ensure quality healthcare is available to all.
"We cannot turn away our neighbours, but we need to start thinking hard about introducing a payment system, similar to how school fees were paid during the Kamuzu Banda era. I suggest K1000 per individual per year can be a good start," suggested Dr. Ngoma.
Malawi is nearly surrounded by Mozambique, with Tanzania to the north and Zambia to the east.
The influx of foreign patients is not limited to Lilongwe and its surrounding districts.
Districts such as Mulanje, Chikwawa, Mwanza, Mangochi, and even Machinga in the south have reported receiving a significant number of patients from Mozambique. In the central region, Dedza, Ntcheu, and Mchinji have also been impacted.
Health experts have consistently urged the government to increase funding for the Health Ministry, given the growing number of individuals accessing healthcare services.
It remains to be seen whether authorities will heed these pleas and consider the introduction of a healthcare levy to address this complex issue.