GOB to Write Off Over $54 Million in Patient Debts at KHMHA 

In today’s session of the House of Representatives, Minister of Health and Wellness Kevin Bernard announced that the government of Belize has approved the write-off of $54 million patient debts at the K.H.M.H.A. in Belize City. Bernard stated that these uncollected debts, between the period April 2009 to March 2022, were incurred during the challenging COVID-19 years.

A period that saw many Belizeans struggle financially, he said.

“This decision is much more than just a financial adjustment. It represents a profound and immediate relief for thousands of Belizeans who have struggled under the weight of these debts.”

According to Bernard, the debt forgiveness is part of the broader healthcare reforms outlined in the Plan Belize initiative, which aims to make healthcare accessible and equitable for all citizens.

The debt forgiveness follows a similar initiative in October 2023, when the government removed all clinical service fees from public hospitals and clinics nationwide. In a press release issued on October 31, 2023, the Briceño administration stated, “Statistics reveal that revenue arrears for hospital care bills reached approximately 50% over the past three years, underscoring the need for change. Removing fees simplifies the billing process and allows healthcare facilities to focus on delivering quality care.”