Tanzania, July 19 -- Shinyanga. Health officials have clarified that patients are not charged for ambulance services, but may be required to contribute towards the operational costs associated with emergency referrals.

The clarification was made on Sunday, July 19, 2026, by Shinyanga District Medical Officer, Dr Nuru Yunge, during the handover of a new ambulance to the Shinyanga District Council at Tinde A Primary School.

Dr Yunge said the ambulance would be used exclusively for emergency referrals, stressing that no patient would be required to pay for the service itself.

"The ambulance service is free of charge. However, patients may be asked to contribute towards the operational costs of emergency referrals. For those covered by hea...