Medical association wants flexible SOP enforcement as clinics get overwhelmed

 

The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) urged the government to be flexible when carrying out enforcement on private clinics, which are being overwhelmed by patients from government facilities.

MMA president Dr Subramaniam Muniandy said the association understood the importance of complying with the standard operating procedure (SOP) and has a guideline to prevent infectious diseases.

“MMA has been informed there were several cases where the numbers of patients exceeded the capacities of the waiting areas at the clinics.

“The authorities should understand that those who turn up at private clinics comprise those who are ill and are normally accompanied by their family members.

“A number of patients need prompt treatment and it is not appropriate if doctors do not treat them,” Subramaniam said in a statement.

In addition, he said the influx at private medical clinics was also due to Covid-19 screening provided for the community.

“Currently, most clinics have also become vaccination centres under the National Covid-19 Immunisation Programme.

“Doctors and staff will always monitor the number of patients allowed into the clinic, but at times, it is beyond expectation. This is where consideration from the enforcement authorities is much needed,” Subramaniam added.

- Bernama