Ballari: Following five maternal deaths in a single month at the Ballari Institute of Medical Sciences (BIMS), private hospitals in the area have reportedly increased their admission fees for pregnant women, causing financial strain for families. The deaths, linked to the administration of a banned IV fluid at BIMS, have led to widespread fear and a shift of patients from government to private facilities.
Over the past 15 days, several families, concerned about the risks at BIMS and other government hospitals, have opted for private maternity care. However, many have reported steep price hikes by private hospitals, prompting calls for intervention from district authorities.
One resident from Kampli, who chose to remain anonymous, recounted his experience of transferring his pregnant daughter to a private hospital. According to a report, he said, “Earlier, a relative was charged Rs 30,000 for delivery at the same private hospital, but when I admitted my daughter, they demanded Rs 50,000.” He added that despite his daughter’s normal medical condition, the hospital cited a lack of vacant beds due to the increased patient influx.
The sharp rise in costs has left many families struggling, with some unable to afford the care. Patients and relatives are urging authorities to regulate private hospital charges and prevent further exploitation of the vulnerable.
Meanwhile, the Karnataka government has constituted a four-member panel to investigate the maternal deaths at BIMS and other hospitals across the state. The findings are expected to shed light on the healthcare failures contributing to the tragedy.
