The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) said they appreciate the RM3.9 billion increase in allocation for the Health Ministry under Budget 2023 but were disappointed by the number of new posts to be created.
“(The allocation increase) shows the government understands the need for a stronger commitment and investment in health.
“Implementation is crucial. Health policies are all about central policy and local implementation.
“However, the number of new posts – permanent and contract – that will be created does fall short of our expectations given that there are shortages in manpower and a high number of contract doctors in the system,” said MMA president Dr Muruga Raj Rajathurai in a statement today.
He added that MMA is aware that Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa has been lobbying the Finance Ministry and the Public Service Department (PSD) for an increase in permanent positions.
He also asked for more clarity on the 1,500 positions that have been allocated for medical officers, dental officers and pharmacists.
Muruga Raj’s (above) comments came after Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s Budget 2023 presentation at the Dewan Rakyat today.
The MMA president said he believes more funds should be made available for the ministry’s utilisation as the Covid-19 pandemic is now well under control.
Meanwhile, Muruga Raj said the Madani Medical Scheme is a welcome move as closer cooperation between the public and private sectors should be the way forward in reducing congestion in the public healthcare system.
“We await more details and look forward to the smooth implementation of this programme,” he said.
Allocations to repair and upgrade public healthcare facilities are also greatly welcomed, he said, but Muruga Raj hopes there will be transparency in how the money is spent for this purpose as well as follow-ups to ensure it is properly implemented.
“We hope there will be a breakdown provided on the allocations for each healthcare facility and a timeline for its projected completion. These details should be put up in the public domain,” he said.
Another thing Muruga Raj praised from the budget is the government’s move to channel part of the revenue from the excise duty on nicotine liquid and gels for electronic cigarettes and vapes to the Health Ministry.
He added that it was good that the government now plans to properly regulate the e-cigarette and vape industry. - Mkini
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