The Ministry of Health has clarified that recent social media content concerning a patient at the UTH – Women and Newborn Hospital is misleading and does not reflect the facts.
In a statement, Wednesday, Ministry of Health’s Principal Public Relations Officer Georgia Mutale Chimombo explained that the patient in question was admitted following a referral from another facility due to complications from a caesarean section.
Chimombo emphasised that the patient’s condition was critical upon arrival and required immediate surgical intervention.
She highlighted that the patient is currently receiving comprehensive care from a multidisciplinary team of specialists.
Chimombo disclosed that an unauthorised individual recorded the patient while she was in distress and without a bedside guardian.
She revealed that the same individual falsely promised access to private treatment in exchange for a payment of K5,000.
Chimombo reported that the video was later shared with a social media page that began soliciting public donations under false pretences.
She clarified that the infant shown in the video is not the biological child of the patient.
Chimombo noted that although the patient recently enrolled under NHIMA, she does not yet meet the criteria to access its benefits.
She affirmed that the hospital continues to provide all necessary medical support to the patient without interruption.
Chimombo condemned the exploitation of vulnerable individuals for personal or financial gain, describing it as unethical and unacceptable.
She urged members of the public to verify any appeals for assistance through official hospital channels or relevant authorities.
The Ministry reiterated its commitment to upholding the dignity, safety, and rights of all patients within public health institutions.
