Benjamin Mkapa Hospital (BMH) has dismissed as misleading recent social media reports that questioned the quality and cost of services offered to mothers and children at the national referral facility.
The clarification comes after a viral post made on July 2, 2025, claimed that the hospital’s maternal and child health services were substandard and unaffordable for ordinary citizens.
In response, BMH said the claims were inaccurate and lacked balance, as the author did not seek the hospital’s side of the story.
“The hospital continues to deliver high-quality services in line with national healthcare standards and ethics. This year, BMH was named the national winner for best service delivery among all Zonal Referral Hospitals, a testament to the dedication of our staff,” the hospital's management said in a statement released Thursday.
BMH emphasized that it operates under the government’s health policy, which exempts certain groups—such as economically disadvantaged individuals, newborns, and pregnant women—from treatment costs, provided they follow the official referral system.
“Patients referred from Regional Referral Hospitals are treated at no cost, while those who come directly without referrals are expected to contribute to treatment costs either by paying out of pocket or through insurance coverage,” the statement explained.
However, the hospital insisted that no mother or child is ever denied care due to lack of funds.
In addition to free and subsidized services, BMH offers "Private Cash" and "Fast Track" service packages to patients who opt for quicker, direct care including for children upon voluntarily covering associated costs.
The management called on the public to disregard the circulating claims, which they described as “one-sided and contrary to the ethics of professional communication.”
“We remain committed to transparency and welcome feedback from the public as we continuously improve our services. Our healthcare professionals work tirelessly to serve the people of Tanzania, and the majority are doing an excellent job,” the statement read.
BMH urged Tanzanians to continue trusting the hospital for quality, affordable, and accessible healthcare.