IPOH: Since the introduction of the Madani Medical Scheme three months ago, the response has been positive and encouraging, says Dr Zaliha Mustafa.
The Health Minister said until Sept 29, a total of 112,887 households have benefited from the scheme with 181,460 patients receiving out-patient treatment.
She said referring to the demographic data, the beneficiaries consist of various age groups, including children, adults and the elderly.
“This clearly shows that the scheme helps people from all walks of life.
“Since the implementation of the scheme, a total of 1,587 private clinics have registered and provided services,” she said at the launch of the Madani Medical Scheme and the national-level Madani Afiat programme at the Sultan Azlan Shah roundabout in Meru here by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on Sunday (Oct 1).
The medical scheme is part of the government's initiatives to reduce overcrowding at government hospitals and to assist the B40 group in obtaining acute primary care services or outpatient treatment at nearby private general practitioner (GP) clinics.
Dr Zaliha said the involvement of private clinics was very encouraging, as this shows, not only the government's commitment but also the commitment of private clinics as strategic partners in providing access to quality health services for the community.
“In line with the Madani economy agenda which emphasises inclusivity and social well-being, the government has allocated RM100mil for the implementation of the scheme for this year.
“I hope that this scheme will continue next year as well so that more people can enjoy the benefits,” she added.
Dr Zaliha said the ministry would always strive to improve this scheme by taking into account the input and suggestions from various parties.
“Among the improvements that have been implemented include adding more medicines (which can be prescribed), and an increase in the cost of financing for private clinics including the cost of procedures and also X-rays.
“The ministry will also re-evaluate the scope of services (such as dentistry) that can be covered by the scheme from time to time, to ensure that it meets the health needs of the people,” she added.
She said as an effort towards the digitalisation of health services, ProtectHealth has developed a mobile application for easy facilitation.
She said this was for matters such as eligibility checks, clinic searches, checking the balance of benefits under this scheme and also OTP (one-time password) verification when receiving treatment in the clinic.
“The service is further simplified, with those eligible only needing to bring their identity card to any registered clinic.
“Eligibility can also be checked through the MySejahtera application,” she added.
