The Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital (CGTRH) is under intense scrutiny over alleged medical negligence after an emergency patient reportedly died while awaiting surgery amid a Sh350,000 payment dispute.
The deceased, Ali Kibwana, a night guard, collapsed while on duty at the Mvita MP’s office. He was rushed to a nearby private facility for first aid before being referred to CGTRH.
The family is demanding a reshuffle of hospital administration and a thorough probe into what they term medical negligence.
Fatma Kibwana said her elder brother was taken to the facility but was kept waiting for hours at the emergency section.
“He had collapsed because of a clot in the head. We waited for hours and even reached out to the area MP, who intervened to secure a bed in the ward,” she stated.
The patient underwent a scan and was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit, scheduled for surgery to remove the clot. She alleged that the hospital declined to admit him for surgery due to lack of money, despite assurances from the MP.
“They refused until cash was paid. What will the hoi polloi who have no one to speak for them do? We want the Governor to tell us whether he stands with wananchi or staff who are after money,” lamented Kibwana.
Mvita MP Mohamed Machele described the deceased as one of the best staff members in his office. He said Kibwana collapsed at work and was rushed for first aid before referral to CGTRH.
“I called the administrator, informing him that the patient is my staff and asked him to fast-track treatment. I told him I was ready to pay whatever amount would be billed,” recalled Machele.
The surgery bill was Sh800,000, with SHA expected to offset Sh450,000. The MP said he informed the Hospital Administrator that he would pay the Sh350,000 balance and did not require a waiver.
“I told him to let the patient be taken to theatre first to save his life. He refused, stating that without Sh200,000 upfront, the patient would not be admitted. Even after paying Sh150,000, the patient was still not guaranteed a slot,” he added.
Machele warned the Governor that public trust is at risk if the situation is not addressed. “We cannot continue losing the lives of our brothers,” he said, noting that even the County Executive Committee Member for Health had no control over the Administrator.
Human rights activist Walid Sketty condemned the hospital for allegedly prioritising money over patient care.
“Renovations and beautification mean nothing if residents cannot access healthcare. If management cannot serve the people, they should step aside,” he said.
Family members said their brother’s life could have been saved if the hospital had admitted him promptly.
In a separate incident, Rashid Salim claimed his sister died at the facility on Saturday morning. The hospital allegedly demanded Sh500,000 before releasing the body.
“We have been told that if we do not have money, the body will remain in the morgue. The management is inconsiderate of poor people,” said Salim.
By Sadik Hassan
