Terrible service from accounts department

I gave birth via C-section at this hospital on 5 January, and I want to start by saying that the medical staff and overall treatment during my stay were excellent. The doctors and nurses provided professional and compassionate care, and I am grateful for that.

However, my experience with the accounts department has been extremely disappointing and remains unresolved months later.

Prior to my procedure, I was provided with a quotation of approximately R39,000 for private paying patients. At no point was I informed that the cost would differ significantly if processed through medical aid, nor was I given any alternative tariff or updated quotation.

Only after the procedure, when I queried the invoice, was I informed that the total amount was approximately R62,000 due to medical aid rates. No additional procedures or services were performed beyond what was originally quoted.

I was never:

Provided with the applicable medical aid tariff beforehand

Given a revised quotation reflecting the higher amount

Given the opportunity to make an informed financial decision

I have formally disputed this and requested:

Proof that the R62,000 tariff was disclosed to me prior to the procedure

Any document showing I consented to this amount

A breakdown explaining the difference in charges

Despite multiple follow-ups over several months, the accounts department has completely ignored my emails.

This lack of response and transparency is unacceptable. Patients deserve clear, upfront communication about costs—especially for major procedures.

Until this matter is resolved, I cannot recommend this hospital from a financial or administrative perspective.