Private pharmacies and clinics in Namkham Township, Shan State, are facing severe financial strain and service disruptions following the imposition of hefty new taxes by the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA). The move has sparked widespread concern among residents, who are now grappling with skyrocketing healthcare costs and reduced access to medical services.

Since late February, TNLA has begun collecting substantial taxes from private hospitals and clinics in areas under its control. Reports indicate that clinics are being charged an upfront fee of 120 million Kyats, with no option for installment payments, while pharmacies both large and small are being taxed between 40 and 60 million kyats annually.

The financial burden has proven too much for many facilities, forcing some to shut down temporarily. Others have passed the costs onto patients, leading to a sharp rise in the price of medicines and medical services.

“The tax is exorbitant. Clinics and pharmacies are struggling to stay afloat, and the cost of essential medicines has doubled. This is hitting the community hard, especially those who rely on affordable healthcare,” a Namkham resident told SHAN.

The impact of the new taxes is already being felt by patients. The price of a single dose of medicine, which previously cost 10,000 kyats, has nearly doubled to 20,000 kyats. Similarly, the cost of injections has risen from 6,000 to 8,000 kyats, while oral medications have also seen significant price hikes.

“Healthcare and education are basic needs, and this heavy tax burden is making it impossible for people to afford treatment. The government should step in to reduce these taxes,” the resident added.

Even Namkham Public Hospital, operated by CDM health workers under TNLA’s administration, has not been spared. While the hospital remains open, patients report that treatment costs have become prohibitively expensive.

“A visit to the public hospital is now as costly as a private clinic. Minor surgeries cost 14 to 15 million kyats, which is unaffordable for most people. With only one township hospital, the system is overwhelmed, and people are suffering,” said a local woman.

In a further blow to healthcare access, TNLA abruptly ordered the closure of Cherry Land Private Hospital in Naung Sant Ward, Namkham Township, on March 1. The hospital, which had been a lifeline for the community since the COVID-19 pandemic, was shut down without explanation.

Residents have since petitioned TNLA’s administrative office, urging them to allow the hospital to reopen. “Healthcare access is already limited, and closing a facility like Cherry Land only makes things worse. We need more medical services, not fewer,” a concerned resident said.

As of now, it remains unclear whether TNLA will reconsider its decision.

The TNLA’s taxation policy has drawn criticism from locals, who argue that it undermines access to essential services. SHAN reached out to TNLA spokesperson Lwey Ye Oo for comment but has yet to receive a response.

With healthcare costs spiraling out of control and medical facilities shutting down, residents are calling for immediate action to address the crisis. “Healthcare is a basic human right. These taxes are making it inaccessible for ordinary people. Something needs to be done before the situation gets worse,” a local resident emphasized.