As a first step in strengthening the national health system, priority has been given to upgrading health infrastructure, with an emphasis on easy access and customer-friendly services at health centres and hospitals nationwide, said Minister of Health Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar at the Second Meeting of the 21st Legislative Council session yesterday.

“In rural areas, outreach services and mobile clinics have been expanded,” the minister said, adding that this investment aims to create a comprehensive, inclusive, and responsive healthcare system for people in every corner of the country.

In addition to physical development, digital capabilities have also been strengthened through the BruHealth application.

“Through it, citizens can monitor their lifestyle, view vaccination records, make appointments, and have virtual consultations with health workers, among many other useful functions,” he explained.

The progress is in line with the aspirations of a Smart Nation and strengthens a preventive, self-reliant, and people-centred approach to health.

The health sector is also focussing on supporting economic growth through workforce healthcare. The minister noted that the uncontrolled burden of chronic diseases can affect productivity and contribute to increased social costs.

Hence, emphasis is placed on early prevention, regular screening, and more systematic management of chronic diseases, he said.

The establishment of the National Health Screening Centre is an initiative that helps to identify disease risks early, allowing for intervention before symptoms become more serious, the minister added.

(News source: Borneo Bulletin)