The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has officially removed additional fees for patients diagnosed with infectious diseases. Previously, private hospitals charged patients an extra 10% for services related to testing and treatment of viruses such as HIV and Hepatitis. This change affects all private and specialized healthcare centers across the Kurdistan Region.
Dr. Kawa Khalin, General Director of Health Business at the KRG Ministry of Health, explained that the decision aims to reduce the financial burden on patients. “We considered citizens’ welfare and the current economic challenges. Extra fees for infectious diseases are no longer acceptable,” he stated.
The policy previously applied when patients underwent testing for specific viruses. If results came back positive, the fees increased, which created significant financial strain on families. With the new decision, patients no longer face these additional charges, ensuring more equitable access to healthcare.
Healthcare experts and patient advocacy groups welcomed the decision. They emphasized that removing extra fees encourages more people to seek timely testing and treatment without fear of high costs.
The Ministry of Health will monitor private hospitals to ensure compliance. Officials stress that the removal of extra fees applies immediately and affects all patients undergoing virus-related medical services.
This change is part of broader efforts to improve public health policies and protect vulnerable populations in the Kurdistan Region. Citizens are encouraged to report violations to local health authorities.