Candella Hospital in Kegalle has been ordered to pay Rs. 520,000 after admitting to overcharging for blood tests and storing expired medical supplies, according to the Consumer Affairs Authority.
A private healthcare facility in Kegalle district has faced financial penalties following violations related to pricing practices and medical supply management. The Consumer Affairs Authority reported that Candella Hospital (Pvt) Ltd, situated on Colombo Road, pleaded guilty to multiple charges of misconduct during proceedings before the Kegalle Magistrate's Court on August 6.
Investigators from the CAA's Kegalle office discovered the violations during an inspection on July 24. The hospital was found charging Rs. 500 for a Full Blood Count test, which exceeds the regulated maximum price of Rs. 400. Additionally, the facility's laboratory contained 20 packages of expired HCV Rapid Test Cassettes and expired reagents associated with its clinical analysers. The hospital's pharmacy also held 23 packages of expired single-use hypodermic needles intended for sale.
The court imposed a total fine of Rs. 520,000 following the hospital's acknowledgment of all charges brought under the Consumer Affairs Authority Act. The CAA has called on members of the public to remain vigilant and report similar infractions at private medical facilities. Complaints regarding expired medications, chemicals, medical equipment, or improper pricing can be directed to the authority's 1977 hotline during business hours.
