Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — The Directorate General of Health Affairs in Riyadh has warned of not withholding deceased bodies, patients and identification papers, due to financial claims.

It has stated that the Article 30 of the Private Health Institution Law and its executive regulation stipulates that handing over bodies, or discharging patients and newborn is the right of the person himself, or their guardian, or the deceased family, and it is not conditional on any financial procedure.

Health institutions have no right to oblige the signing of financial bonds in exchange for financial claims, or to keep the deceased bodies and withhold the newborn and patients without allowing them to leave the hospital, or to keep the identification papers in exchange for financial dues.

The Ministry of Health has confirmed that it is conducting monitoring tours, and referring violators to competent committees of the health institution, in order to take regular measures to collect their dues.

It has also asked everyone to report on such violations through calling 937.