5 Jun 2006

American Samoan hospital to offer special rates for pregnancy checks

8:22 am on 5 June 2006

American Samoa's LBJ Hospital is to begin offering special rates for pre natal patients this week.

If a patient comes in for a screening during the first trimester of pregnancy they will be entitled to reduced rates.

For non resident patients, the fees will be capped at the same rate as residents if they come in for early screening.

If they do not start their check ups early, they will pay the normal charges which can run up to $2000.

The Chief Financial Officer of LBJ, David Deprin, said the hospital is providing the incentive as too many are waiting too long, increasing the risk of complications for both the mother and child.