Minister of Health Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar has reaffirmed the Ministry of Health’s continued commitment to continuously reviewing existing policies to ensure the long-term sustainability and resilience of the national healthcare system during the Second Meeting of the 21st Legislative Council (LegCo) Session yesterday.

Touching on the topic of a long-term healthcare financing roadmap, the minister emphasised that this approach reflects the government’s proactive and inclusive commitment to tackling future challenges, adding that, “This includes a comprehensive review of treatment costs and healthcare service policies.”

The implementation of the Healthcare Service Charges Policy represents a step towards ensuring the sustainability of the national healthcare system, with the minister stressing that the policy is being introduced with due consideration of patients’ financial capabilities, medical needs, and their real-life circumstances.

“This policy is not intended to be discriminatory. Rather, it aims to strengthen the healthcare system and ensure that no health disparities occur,” the minister said.

The minister also reminded that for individuals facing financial difficulties, eligibility assessments will be conducted, with those who qualify being able to seek assistance through various channels.

These channels include the Patient Charity Assistance Fund, the Zakat, Waqaf and Baitulmal (JUZWAB), the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, or through instalment payment schemes.

“The ministry will never neglect patients in need of treatment, as public health considerations will always remain a top priority in every decision made,” the minister reaffirmed.

The minister also acknowledged the specific challenges faced by elderly applicants awaiting citizenship approval who also experience financial constraints.

As part of the healthcare financing roadmap, the Ministry will carry out continuous studies to identify and resolve emerging issues.

The Minister confirmed that this planning roadmap would be implemented as a key activity in its overall healthcare strategy.

(News & pic source: Borneo Bulletin)