Suspend Flying Doctor Service until all choppers are inspected, urges group

 Hartal Doktor Kontrak says Putrajaya must not allow the service to continue without first ensuring the safety of the aircraft and facilities used.

Earlier today, health minister Dzulkefly Ahmad said the Flying Doctor Service will continue despite the crash as it is essential to providing healthcare coverage for communities in the country’s interior. (Facebook pic)

PETALING JAYA:

A group representing contract doctors has urged the health ministry to suspend its Flying Doctor Service (FDS) until the helicopters used for the service are inspected and cleared.

Hartal Doktor Kontrak said the ministry must not allow the service to continue without first ensuring the safety of aircraft and facilities used, following the crash in Sarawak that killed all five onboard yesterday.

“We call for the temporary suspension of the service until a full and thorough inspection of all ageing helicopters, facilities, maintenance records and operational procedures has been completed by the authorities.

“A statement of continuity without clear safety measures, accountability, inspection, and protection for healthcare workers is inadequate and unacceptable,” it said in a statement.

The group called for the ongoing investigation into the crash to be conducted transparently, with its findings released to the next of kin of the victims and the public.

It also called for compulsory indemnity and insurance coverage for all personnel involved in the Flying Doctor Service, as well as for higher allowances.

“This is not part of their ordinary job scope compared with many of their colleagues, and they must be compensated fairly for carrying this additional risk,” it said.

It also called for funding under the 2027 budget to upgrade aircraft, equipment and facilities used in the service.

“This tragedy must become a turning point in how such services are planned, funded, delivered, and monitored. Essential services must continue, but they must never continue at the cost of preventable harm to the very people carrying them out,” it said.

Five people were onboard the BO-105 helicopter that crashed near the Long Lellang short take-off and landing airport in Ulu Baram, about 930km from Kuching.

They comprised the pilot, a medical officer, an assistant medical officer, and two nurses, all of whom were on official duty at the time.

Earlier today, health minister Dzulkefly Ahmad said the service, which began in the 1970s, will continue despite the crash as it was essential to providing healthcare coverage for communities in the country’s interior. -  FMT