Osun Hospital Allegedly Detains Newborn Over Mother’s N700,000 Medical Debt

A private hospital in Osun State has come under public attention following reports that it is detaining a newborn baby over an unpaid medical bill estimated at N700,000. The incident has generated public concern and renewed discussions about patients’ rights and medical ethics in Nigeria.

The case involves a young mother who reportedly experienced serious medical complications during childbirth, leading to extended hospital care for both her and the baby. After treatment was completed and the newborn was declared medically stable, the hospital allegedly refused to discharge the child, insisting that the outstanding bill must be settled first.

Sources say the family has already paid a significant amount for medical services but has been unable to raise the remaining balance due to financial hardship.

Relatives of the mother have appealed for understanding, stating that the continued stay of the newborn in the hospital has placed emotional and psychological strain on the family.

The hospital management is reported to have justified its position by pointing to past experiences where patients left without paying their medical bills. According to the management, unpaid debts affect the hospital’s ability to operate and provide services to other patients.

The situation has attracted criticism from members of the public and human rights advocates, who argue that holding patients, particularly newborns, over unpaid bills is unethical and contrary to basic human rights principles. Some legal observers have also suggested that such actions may conflict with existing laws and professional medical standards.

As public reaction continues to grow, there have been calls for the Osun State Government and relevant health authorities to step in, facilitate the release of the newborn, and address systemic issues that allow such incidents to occur.

The case has once again drawn attention to the broader challenges facing Nigeria’s healthcare system, especially the financial burden on families and limited access to affordable healthcare.