A private hospital in Jaffna has been fined Rs. 3 million by the Jaffna Magistrate’s Court for charging patients above the approved maximum fee for a medical test.
The Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) had set the maximum charge for a Full Blood Count (FBC) test at Rs. 400 in private hospitals and medical laboratories.
However, during a special inspection conducted by CAA officers, it was found that the institution located in the Kandar Madam area along Palali Road, Jaffna, had charged Rs. 550 for the same test.
The CAA subsequently filed a case against the institution before the Jaffna Magistrate’s Court. After the institution pleaded guilty, the court imposed the Rs. 3 million fine and ordered it to publish an announcement in leading newspapers at its own expense regarding the offence.
The Consumer Affairs Authority has urged the public to be aware of approved medical service charges when obtaining services from private hospitals and laboratories.
Consumers have also been advised to obtain valid bills or receipts for all payments, as they can serve as important evidence when making complaints.
Complaints regarding charges exceeding the approved limits can be submitted to the CAA through the hotline 1977 during office hours.