And so while Belizeans in the districts will be able to get free care at the public hospitals and clinics across the country, as you heard Belize City residents who primarily use KHMH won't be so lucky. For one, KHMH isn't a public hospital, second it has a huge annual operational budget, and that's why the Ministry of Health said that they would have to evaluate it separately.
But it's the hospital used by residents living in the most densely populated area in the country. And, it also services the rest of the country as well as the national referral hospital.
So we asked one Belize City area rep if KHMH will eventually have its fees removed as well.
Kareem Musa, Minister of Home Affairs
"That is of course definitely on the agenda. The cabinet did actually consider yesterday as you are aware that KHMH is a statutory authority. So there has to be greater consultation and consideration where it comes to KHMH."
"But in respect to all other services, all other clinics that is, we will be seeing the removal of fees."
Reporter
"Do you feel it a bit unfair for Belize City residents considering, well, we know it's a great feat for the other districts that have these clinics and even the smaller clinics here."
Kareem Musa, Minister of Home Affairs
"Yes, we have clinics in Belize City and of course our citizens are going to benefit from that service from these clinics right here in Belize City. And KHMH does service the entire country, not just Belize City residents."
"And so again, that is something moving forward that I'm certain the Ministry of Health will be looking at."
