Government Orders Introduction of Paid Services in District Referral Hospitals
Published on January 22, 2026 at 1:39 PM by Evance Kapito
The government has directed all major district hospitals across the country to introduce a paid services section, as Malawi continues to face serious economic challenges affecting the health sector.
The move comes amid the suspension and reduction of financial support from some international cooperating partners towards health services.
According Minister of Health Madalitso Baloyi, the decision is aimed at helping government raise additional revenue to support the provision of essential services in public hospitals.
Baloyi emphasized that the paid services will be optional, stressing that hospitals will continue to provide free medical services alongside the new paying sections.
“This arrangement is meant to complement government efforts, not to deny citizens access to healthcare,” Baloyi said.
Meanwhile, Anthony Masamba, Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Health, has backed the initiative, saying it will help improve the quality and sustainability of healthcare services in public hospitals.
The government believes the move will ease pressure on limited resources while maintaining access to basic healthcare for the general public.
Source;MIJ Online
