Relatives of pregnant women are urging the district administration to take swift action against private hospitals accused of overcharging and exploiting patients.
Following five maternal deaths at the Ballari Institute of Medical Sciences (BIMS) within a month, allegedly caused by the use of banned IV fluids by hospital staff, a significant number of patients have begun transferring from BIMS and other government facilities to private hospitals.
Reports suggest some private hospitals are taking advantage of the situation by significantly increasing their charges for admitting pregnant women.
A resident from Kampli shared his experience, stating that a private hospital that previously charged ₹30,000 for delivery is now demanding ₹50,000 for the same services. Despite the patient’s normal medical reports, the hospital cited a lack of vacant beds due to the surge in admissions.
Families are calling on the authorities to ensure private hospitals do not exploit patients during this crisis.