Deputy Health Minister-Designate, Mahama Asei Seini has described as unlawful, the practice whereby staff of health facilities charge pregnant women for services and medication.

A recent documentary by Corruption Watch titled 'Pay or die' revealed that despite provisions in the National Heath Insurance Act, 2012 (Act, 852), some health officials at 37 Military Hospital, Mamprobi Polyclinic and others charge pregnant women for services rendered.

Responding to questions on the documentary's revelations at Parliament's Appointment Committee during his vetting, Monday, Mr Seini indicated that if given the nod, he will advise the substantive Minister to investigate the allegations made in the film.

"Mr Chairman, I will suggest to my Minister that he should commence with the investigation so that we will come up with the truth and then we will take the legal actions."       

Touching on the infrastructure deficit in the health sector, the nominee revealed that the incumbent government has awarded 75 out of 111 contracts to build a district hospital in order to improve healthcare delivery in the country.

He said, despite the delay, the 75 district hospitals will be ready for use by the end of this year.

"The 111 was a vision of the NPP government just to augment the deficit in the health infrastructure. So far 75 have been awarded waiting for the sod to be cut to commence. The others are in the pipe line. If you approve me, I would discuss with my Minister when this thing can be commenced but before the end of 2021, something will be done," he added.