The Ministry of Health and Medical Services has raised serious concerns that some private General Practitioners (GPs) under the Government’s Public-Private Partnership (PPP) scheme are turning away patients due to delays in payment processing.
In a statement, the Ministry said it was aware of reports that certain contracted doctors have refused to see patients who are eligible under the PPP program, warning that such actions could have severe health consequences.
“The Ministry is concerned that GPs are turning away patients who are sick and present to their clinics because their payments are delayed,” the statement said.
“These patients require professional assessments and medical interventions, and turning patients away may result in further deterioration of their medical conditions.”
The PPP for General Practitioners and Medical Laboratory Services was established by the Government as part of its COVID-19 health and economic response strategy. The program enables eligible Fijians to access free consultations and diagnostic services from approved private doctors and laboratories.
The Ministry stressed that the Ministry of Finance, Strategic Planning, National Development, and Statistics has processes in place to ensure all participating GPs and laboratories are compensated according to signed agreements.
“The majority of contracted providers are fulfilling the provisions of the agreement and have received due compensation after the necessary vetting process for payment claims.”
However, it acknowledged that some providers may be experiencing delays in payment due to the verification process, which ensures that all claims are valid and compliant with the terms of the PPP agreements.
“The Ministry encourages the contracted GPs to refrain from such actions that can further jeopardise the health of people presenting at the GP’s clinic.”
“We urge all providers to continue to liaise with the Ministry of Finance for the amicable resolution of their concerns.”
The Ministry reaffirmed its appreciation for the ongoing cooperation between government and private health providers under the PPP scheme, noting that the partnership has been crucial in ensuring timely access to healthcare and diagnostic services for thousands of Fijians.
