16.01.2026 10:10
While hundreds of lira are charged for parking lots that should be free in private hospitals, consumer organizations state that patients and their relatives who apply with a receipt can receive a refund from the Consumer Arbitration Committee.
The charging of parking lots, which are stated to be free in private hospitals, is causing reactions from patients and their relatives. Complaints indicate that fees of up to 300-400 TL per hour are being requested, that high fees are demanded even for short-term parking, and that in some cases, payments are collected under the name of "valet service."
REGULATION DISCUSSION
Consumer organizations emphasize that the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change is responsible for meeting the parking needs of hospitals under the Parking Regulation, while the regulation includes provisions stating that the parking needs in many public use areas, including hospitals, should be met within the building, on the parcel, or if not possible, on the neighboring parcel.
NO RECEIPT GIVEN, AND WHEN INSISTED...
Citizens state that no receipts are given in some hospitals, and when insisted, documents are issued with the phrase "valet service." Complaints also include statements that parking and valet fees are charged from those who come to the emergency room and from relatives of patients who are hospitalized.
DEFENSE OF PRIVATE HOSPITALS
The Association of Private Hospitals and Health Institutions (OHSAD) claims that free areas do not meet demand, that there is no space available during peak hours, and therefore, areas are rented from outside and given to operators; it was also stated that there is a free card application for hospitalized patients.
CONSUMER ORGANIZATIONS: REFUND OPTION AVAILABLE
Consumer Confederation President Aydın Ağaoğlu argued that hospitals are required to have a certain number of parking spaces, and that renting these spaces to third parties and making them paid is contrary to the legislation. Ağaoğlu stated that those who pay for parking/valet can apply to the Consumer Arbitration Board with documents showing that they received a receipt and health services, and that a refund may be possible.