THE Ministry of Health (MOH) has reaffirmed that there has been no change in policy concerning the issuance of itemised bills by private medical clinics, clarifying that patients remain entitled to such bills upon request and without charge.
This follows public confusion stemming from remarks made during a TikTok Live session last Wednesday, which addressed the government’s ongoing initiative to enhance transparency in the pricing of medications at private healthcare facilities and community pharmacies.
“The patient’s right to receive itemised bills is a matter provided for under the Private Healthcare Facilities and Services (Private Hospitals and Other Private Healthcare Facilities) Regulations 2006,” the ministry said in a statement issued today.
The ministry emphasised that while private clinics are not required to issue itemised bills automatically, they must do so upon request, and patients should not incur any additional cost for requesting a breakdown of service, treatment and medication charges.
The clarification comes amid media reports suggesting that general practitioners (GPs) and private specialists would now be obliged to provide itemised bills under a new directive linked to the drug price display initiative, which took effect on 1 May.
“The session titled ‘Myths and Facts of Drug Price Display’ was intended to inform the public and not to announce any change in policy,” the ministry explained.
MOH added that it is committed to protecting patient rights and maintaining transparency in healthcare provision, in line with the MADANI values framework promoted by the government.
“Good and ongoing cooperation between all stakeholders is essential to strengthening the quality of healthcare services and safeguarding the welfare of patients,” the statement read. - May 17, 2025
