The Health Secretary (SES) of Brazil has raised alarms about a scam targeting patients of the Metropolitan Hospital in Várzea Grande, where criminals are sending fraudulent charges under the hospital's name. This warning was issued on Wednesday, as the public was made aware of the deceitful tactics being used. Patients are receiving messages demanding payment for medical procedures, despite the hospital's offerings being free of charge under the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS).

According to SES, the scam operates by sending messages that falsely claim the hospital will not perform necessary surgeries until a monetary deposit is received. The fraudsters enhance the credibility of their deceit by attaching images that appear to be official hospital documents, which outline pre-operative instructions and further details that might mislead patients into thinking the claims are legitimate.

This development raises concerns about the safety and wellbeing of patients who may be vulnerable to such scams, especially those relying on the SUS for their medical needs. The SES has not only warned the public but may also seek to investigate the sources of these fraudulent communications to prevent further victimization of unsuspecting individuals. Authorities encourage anyone who receives such a message to report it immediately, reinforcing the importance of vigilance in safeguarding public health information.