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 determined that the maximum charge for a Full Blood Count (FBC) test at private hospitals and medical laboratories should be Rs. 400.
However, during a special inspection conducted by CAA officers, it was found that a private medical institution located in the Kandar Madam area along Palali Road, Jaffna, had charged Rs. 550 for the same test.
Following the discovery, the CAA filed legal action against the institution before the Jaffna Magistrate’s Court. After the institution pleaded guilty to the offence, the court imposed a fine of Rs. 3 million.
The court also ordered the institution to publish an announcement in leading newspapers at its own expense regarding the violation.
The CAA has urged the public to remain aware of approved charges for medical services when obtaining treatment or tests from private hospitals and laboratories.
Consumers have also been advised to obtain valid bills or receipts for all payments, as these documents can be used as evidence when submitting complaints.
Complaints regarding charges exceeding approved limits can be made to the CAA through its hotline 1977 during office hours.
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