Bengaluru: A 67-year-old man, awaiting COVID test result returned opting not to undergo treatment, after Columbia Asia Hospital in Bengauru handed over an estimated bill of Rs 9.09 lakhs to the man for 10 days!
The elderly was gasping for breath and had hence come to the hospital. However, when the hospital quoted the hefty amount for 10 days ICU with vetilator, the family did not admit him as they could not afford to pay the amount.
As per The New Indian EXpress, the break up of the bill includes Rs 1.40 lakh for ventilator charges, Rs 3 lakh for medicines, medical supplies and consumables, Rs 2 lakh for laboratory investigations, Rs 75,000 for room rent. Rs 75,000 professional fee, Rs 58,500 for nursing charges, Rs 35,000 for radiology investigations and physiotherapy, Rs 25,000 equipment and surgical items.
However, the family contacted HBS Hospital through NGO Mercy Mission and with the condition of the patient deteriorating, the family decided to take the ailing patient to HBS Hospital, where the patient was admitted for Rs 25,000.
The man was tested positive for COVID on Tuesday morning. After this episode, Minister for Medical Education Dr K Sudhakar has warned the hospitals of stern action if such incidents occur.
The hospital authorities have clarified that it was only an estimated bill and it was not a final costing at all.
