The Health Ministry believes begging for funds on the streets for overseas treatments must cease.

Spokesperson Peni Namotu said Commissioners and their District Administration have been notified not to issue letters for begging in streets and communities for overseas treatment.

He added that patients needing assistance must liaise with their medical specialists at base hospitals and headquarters for assistance in seeking out institution and financial support.

Last year the government utilized $1.4 million to evacuate and provide overseas treatments for close to 70 patients, mostly in India.

Story by: Ronal Deo