Health Ministry to propose treatment coverage in schemes to Cabinet
PUTRAJAYA: With mental health gaining increased attention, the Health Ministry is proposing to the Cabinet that coverage for the condition be included in health insurance packages available to the public.
Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni said the ministry is also exploring ways to encourage private sector employers to provide mental health treatment coverage for their employees.
“Several MPs have emphasised the need for this initiative to ensure that employers support the ministry and facilitate necessary treatment for employees,” he stated after a briefing on mental health and responsible media reporting about suicide yesterday.
Lukanisman explained that the Health Ministry cannot tackle this issue alone and that collaboration with various government agencies, particularly the Human Resources Ministry, is essential for determining the best approach for the private sector to provide mental health treatment coverage or integrate it into insurance plans.
He said the proposal would be put forward to the Cabinet, which would then decide the agencies to spearhead the implementation.
“This will be a two-way process, where the views and concerns of the industry will be taken into account, rather than a unilateral decision,” he said.
“Multiple sectors and industry players will provide input as this involves financial implications. It should not be viewed as a burden despite the negative impact of poor mental health on productivity.”
Lukanisman also highlighted the national Mental Health Crisis Line (HEAL) at 15555, which has assisted 317 cases of suicidal behaviour with the help of police and other agencies since its launch on Oct 21, 2022, until July 20 this year.
On another matter, Lukanisman dismissed allegations that a 14-year-old girl posing as a medical officer had administered medication to patients at a public hospital.
He stated that the procedures require specific skills that the impersonator did not have.
“While she was able to move around the hospital, she did not perform any medical procedures. Her impersonation was revealed when hospital staff became suspicious of her youthful appearance,” he explained.
To prevent similar incidents, Lukanisman said the ministry has implemented improved security measures, including identification passes.
He stressed the importance of continuous treatment for mental health issues, stating that these problems can affect anyone, even those who appear healthy.
“Parents and guardians play a crucial role in addressing the stigma surrounding mental health and must strive to understand the challenges their children face.
“When their children encounter mental health problems, they need to seek help and ensure ongoing treatment,” he added.
Meanwhile, Lukanisman reported that the ceiling leaks in Miri Hospital’s emergency department have been repaired.
“Miri Hospital is still under the defect liability period and is not yet fully operational. Only the emergency department is open, and it is currently functioning well,” he said.
He clarified that the leak was caused by defective materials used in the ceiling’s construction, and the contractor had met with the hospital’s director and conducted repairs.
“The affected area was in front of the main door near the green zone, but other zones were unaffected and operations are normal,” said Lukanisman.
