While we still have a long way to go, there is no doubt that Rwanda has made significant strides in positioning itself as a hub for medical tourism, through investing in state-of-the-art facilities and specialised services. However, the recent call by private health facilities for reforms in medical tariff underscores a critical aspect of this ambition: the need to ensure that pricing structures reflect the true value of medical services provided. Since 2017, medical tariffs have remained unchanged, despite rising operational costs. Private healthcare providers argue that the current tariff system does not adequately cover the expenses incurred in delivering quality care. This situation not only affects the sustainability of private health institutions but also has implications on the overall quality of healthcare services in the country. For Rwanda to realise its vision of becoming a medical tourism destination, it is imperative that medical services earn their worth. This means establishing a tariff system that is both fair and reflective of the quality of care provided. By implication, any adjustments to tariffs must be accompanied by a commitment from healthcare providers to uphold the highest standards of service delivery. The issue of service quality has been a longstanding concern in Rwanda's healthcare sector. Patients have, at times, reported dissatisfaction with the level of care received, citing issues such as inadequate communication, long waiting times, and perceived indifference from medical staff. Addressing these concerns is crucial, not only for patient satisfaction but also for building a reputation that attracts medical tourists. A key step in this direction is the strict adherence to the medical service charter, which outlines the rights and responsibilities of both patients and healthcare providers. Healthcare institutions must ensure that their staff are well-trained, empathetic, and committed to delivering patient-centered care. Regular monitoring and evaluation should be conducted to assess compliance with the charter and identify areas for improvement. In conclusion, while revising medical tariffs is necessary to ensure the financial viability of healthcare providers, it must go hand in hand with efforts to enhance service quality. Only by aligning pricing with excellence in care can Rwanda achieve its goal of becoming a leading destination for medical tourism. The journey towards this objective requires collaboration between the government, private sector, and all stakeholders in the healthcare ecosystem.
