MHC backs formation of independent health commission

 

The Malaysian Health Coalition (MHC) welcomed the government’s idea to establish a health commission amid the current political instability.

In a statement today, the group said the country needs a strong implementation body, particularly the Health Reform Commission, to ensure the implementation of the Health White Paper’s (HWP) recommendations.

"The commission can focus on strengthening our healthcare system despite transition in the political landscape.

"Malaysia must capitalise on this unique timing and muster the political will to push for these long-overdue reforms.

"We look forward to a strategic HWP to create a proactive and preventive healthcare system, and we pledge support to the Health Ministry in these efforts," said the group.

The HWP was placed as the centrepiece in the recently concluded Health Policy Summit 2022, and the document is expected to be tabled in Parliament in November or December, according to the group.

In June, the government announced it would table HWP in November, which would include the establishment of a health commission.

The commission would be tasked to independently monitor, advise and report on the status of healthcare reforms implementation to the government.

On that note, while applauding the ministry's effort to shift the focus from “sick-care” to healthcare and general wellness, MHC stressed that the responsibility to create a healthy Malaysia should not be borne by a single ministry.

Multi-agency approach needed

Hence, they said the white paper must include a planned and systemic change across public administration, ranging from several ministries and agencies, to create a healthy Malaysia.

"This is in line with HWP’s mission to restructure health financing and tackle different health determinants including social, environmental, education and economic aspects.

"And these are beyond the scope and authority of the Health Ministry. Therefore, we call for other ministries to exhibit a similar commitment to health in all their policies," the group added.

On a related matter, MHC said the HWP should also have recommendations to strengthen the recruitment process in the ministry.

"While we welcome the 4,000 permanent posts announced on Aug 16, we must endeavour to tackle the root of the problem.

“The white paper would serve as a suitable platform to strengthen the whole recruitment process, from as early as the undergraduate training level,” it said.

MHC added that HWP should also touch on improving the welfare of all healthcare workers, particularly on their terms of service.

“This should include revising the remuneration rate, distributing a fair workload among healthcare workers, and having an anti-bullying and safe workplace culture,” it said. - Mkini