AN MCA leader has expressed concern over the country’s medical inflation rate, which has soared to 12.6%, more than twice the global average.

Party vice president Datuk Lawrence Low said this in light of a recent case concerning an accounts assistant executive who recently underwent surgery for a benign tumour who was left shocked by the hefty medical bill which included unnecessary charges.

According to Ain Mat Saad, who was told that the surgery to remove a tumour on her pituitary gland could hit RM80,000, her hospital bill had also included items that she had not asked for, such as wet wipes, a “Fall Risk” wrist band and a warm bag, reported The Star.

“Rising costs of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and operational expenses – driven by reliance on imports and a weak foreign exchange – are putting a greater burden on patients, even those with insurance,” Low stated.

Citing Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Dr Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid who was previously quoted as saying that prevention is better than cure in light of the long waiting periods at public hospitals where charges are mostly affordable, Low said the former’s statement holds some truth but overlooks the fact that many, especially those in the B40 group, cannot afford preventive care.

“To truly prioritise prevention, the government should introduce subsidised programmes by partnering with local clinics and pharmacies to provide affordable or free health screenings,” he noted.

“Additionally, companies could be encouraged to implement mandatory preventive care programmes, supported by tax incentives, allowing employees to access routine check-ups without financial strain.”

The party’s Economic & SMEs Affairs committee chairman said Ain’s experience further highlighted the wider issue of hidden charges and unexpected costs, such as the wet wipes that she was charged for.

“Hospitals must ensure billing transparency by providing itemised bills that clearly justify each charge, preventing unnecessary expenses,” he stressed.

“On a related note, insurance companies should offer customisable plans that target specific health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups.

“By raising awareness of these tailored options and ensuring policy transparency, Malaysians can better manage healthcare costs and protect themselves from unexpected expenses, leading to a more secure healthcare system.”

Improving infrastructure

Low further pointed out that due to the rising cost in medical treatment, many people now opt for public healthcare despite maintaining the view that it is inefficient, with long waiting lines and the belief of poorer service being a source of dissatisfaction among many.

“To tackle this problem, the government should invest more in improving infrastructure, reduce the number of patients each doctor sees, and increase salaries for public sector doctors to attract more skilled medical specialists,” he suggested.

“A hand-in-hand measure is also needed, whereby a higher allocation by the Finance Ministry in the upcoming Budget 2025 would serve a dual aspiration i.e., work-life balance for public healthcare workers, upgraded and more medical amenities, and for common Malaysian patients seeking treatment at government medical facilities.

“Healthcare should be seen as a fundamental right, and not merely as a profit-driven industry.”

Pointing to rising costs tied to medical imports, Low also stressed that the country needs to reduce its dependence on foreign pharmaceuticals and devices.

“This can be achieved by investing in the research and development (R&D), supporting local pharmaceutical companies, and fostering innovation in medical technology which would create more affordable healthcare solutions and reduce foreign exchange pressures,” he added.

“By addressing both the root causes and consequences of medical inflation, these solutions can help make healthcare more accessible, equitable, and sustainable for all Malaysians.” – Sept 23, 2024

https://focusmalaysia.my/mca-government-intervention-needed-to-solve-rising-medical-costs-1/