Monrovia – The administration of the John F. Kennedy Memorial Medical Center (JFKMC) in Monrovia has announced an increase in maternity service fees and the cancellation of free healthcare for children under five, prompting widespread criticism from Liberian citizens.
By: Yawah Y. Jaivey, [email protected]
In a memorandum dated July 16, 2025, signed by CEO Dr. Linda A. Birch and addressed to the hospital’s Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Joseph Massah, JFKMC outlined new registration fees for maternity services.
This move follows an earlier directive in May 2025, which canceled all free treatment for children under five, triggering concerns about access to healthcare for Liberia’s most vulnerable populations.
The latest memo details a new fee schedule for Caesarean sections, including an admission fee of $25 (for 1-5 days), a surgical fee of $90, intraoperative medications and supplies costing $65, and routine labs at $20, amounting to a total of $200. The hospital mandated that all patients must deposit the specified amounts before undergoing surgery, with receipts to be documented in patients’ charts.
“We regret any inconvenience this may cause you,” the memo reads.
Furthermore, JFKMC announced that all other services would be billed as ordered, effective July 15, 2025.
However, the latest move has drawn sharp criticism from Liberians, many of whom argue that the fee hikes and removal of free services threaten the health and lives of mothers and children.
Wanton Teah Wantoe, a vocal critic of the ruling Unity Party-led government, condemned the decision, stating, “Children who once received treatment for free are now being turned away if their parents cannot pay. Liberia already ranks among the worst in the world for under-five mortality. These policies are costing lives.”
Wantoe called on President Joseph Nyumah Boakai to intervene, emphasizing that the recent policies do not align with the government’s supposed “Rescue Mission” and warning of a dangerous regression that endangers maternal and child health.
Dashie Zeabo, a Liberian opined, “So, these people are telling us it is too expensive to give birth? Anyway, That’s a another death sentence, coming from rescue.”
Siah J. Tandanpolie, a prominent political figure, expressed concern over the situation, questioning whether investigations are underway into the hospital’s financial practices.
“What will private hospitals or clinics do if JFKMC continues on this path?” She asked.
Rufus Aguero Harris, another Liberian citizen, shared a tragic account of personal loss, revealing, “I paid US$150 for a C-section this June, excluding other fees. Sadly, my newborn and my partner did not survive due to lack of proper care. I lost my child and my girlfriend in just ten days.”
Opposition figure Moriah Yeakula-Korkpor criticized the move, saying, “JFK is not only increasing fees for maternal care but also cancelling free healthcare for children under five. Babies might die; poor families will suffer. Yet, the generator makes $3,600, but they can’t increase the budget to cover these costs? Who is truly being rescued here?”
While many citizens express outrage, some supporters of the government offer a different perspective. Max G. Kollie, a pro-government supporter, welcomed the fee adjustments, stating, “Thanks to management for clarifying the costs. JFK has never been free, and knowing the charges helps families plan better. If President Boakai doesn’t meet the people’s expectations, they may prefer another leader.”
As public discontent grows, calls for urgent intervention from health authorities and government officials intensify. The decision by JFKMC raises critical questions about healthcare access and affordability in Liberia, especially for the nation’s most vulnerable populations.
