Mpilo Hospital sets Harare debt collectors on ex-patients

MPILO Central Hospital in Bulawayo has unleashed debt collectors to recover more than $22 million from patients who have not settled medical bills.

The hospital is struggling to restock on essential drugs and rehabilitate essential machinery as patients continue not paying.

Wellcash Debt Collectors, which the hospital engaged to collect its dues, is issuing notices and attaching property belonging to residents with outstanding debts.

A source at Wellcash said thousands of notices have been dispatched to owing former patients.

The affected residents have, however, expressed concern over the hefty interests that they are being charged by the Harare based firm.

Health and Child Care Deputy Minister Dr Adrian Musiiwa yesterday declined to comment on the issue, saying he needs to communicate with the hospital first.