The recent Public Accounts Committee (PAC) hearing on private healthcare costs has highlighted serious concerns about rising health insurance premiums and escalating charges at private hospitals. Testimonies from over 50 speakers, including retirees, insurance specialists, and affected citizens, reveal the urgent need for reform in both the insurance and healthcare sectors to ensure fair and affordable access to medical services.
A key issue raised was the disparity in costs between insured and self-paying patients, with many reporting that those without insurance were charged higher amounts for identical treatments. This practice must be addressed. The government's proposal to absorb 10% of insurance premiums does not solve the problem but may encourage private hospitals to profiteer further.
