The paying ward which currently has a nine-bed capacity was officially opened Monday where Dr. Macheso said the capacity will increase to 24 by mid-May next month.

“Mindset change towards the services is critical now since money realized is there to improve the provision of quality health services in the district,” he said.

While appreciating steps taken by the district health office, Inkosi ya Makhosi Gomani V believes rolling out paying services at the facility will not compromise service delivery.

“The facility has been opened and we hope it will not compromise health service delivery. We will enhance monitoring to ensure funds realized are accountable,” he said.

Meanwhile, Chairperson for Ntcheu District Hospital, Health Advisory Committee, James Mwanza has committed to being gatekeepers in ensuring that there is a balance in the provision of health services to both people seeking services free or not.

Among the paying services being offered include, OPD, In-patient, dental, and eye.