Mombasa: The Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital (CGTRH) is facing severe criticism following allegations of medical negligence after a patient died while awaiting surgery due to a Sh350,000 payment dispute.
According to Kenya News Agency, the deceased, Ali Kibwana, who worked as a night guard, collapsed at the Mvita MP’s office and was initially taken to a private facility for first aid before being referred to CGTRH. The family is now calling for a reshuffle of the hospital’s administration and a comprehensive investigation into the alleged negligence.
Fatma Kibwana, the deceased’s sister, recounted that her brother was left waiting for hours in the emergency section of the hospital. Despite suffering from a head clot, the family claims that the hospital delayed his surgery due to financial issues, even after interventions by the local MP.
Mvita MP Mohamed Machele expressed his frustration, describing Ali Kibwana as a valued employee. He recounted his efforts to expedite the treatment process by directly contacting the hospital administrator and offering to cover the Sh350,000 balance required for the surgery. Despite his assurances, the hospital allegedly insisted on an upfront payment of Sh200,000 before admitting the patient for surgery.
Machele warned of eroding public trust if such situations persist, urging the Governor to address the issue promptly. Human rights activist Walid Sketty also criticized the hospital’s management, accusing them of prioritizing financial considerations over patient care.
In a related incident, Rashid Salim reported that his sister died at the facility, and the hospital demanded Sh500,000 to release her body. Salim expressed his frustration over the insensitivity towards families unable to afford such costs.
Family members and other critics argue that the hospital’s actions potentially cost Ali Kibwana his life, highlighting the urgent need for reforms in the facility’s administrative practices.
