Group: Health allocation should be higher

PETALING JAYA: The allocation for the Health Ministry in Budget 2024 should be increased to allow more permanent doctors to be employed and to expand the Madani Medical Scheme, says a doctors’ group.

Hartal Doktor Kontrak said there were seven areas the Budget should focus on for the welfare of junior doctors and to enhance healthcare accessibility for all Malaysians.

“The current shortage of medical personnel necessitates an immediate emphasis on converting contract medical officer positions into permanent roles.

“In 2022, a record-breaking 1,354 contract medical officers resigned, surpassing the total from the preceding two years combined.

“This marked a staggering 1,131% increase over five years, with resignations escalating from 110 in 2017 to reach four figures for the first time last year,” it said.

It also said that the Madani Medical Scheme should be made accessible to everyone and not just the B40 group.

“Increasing its scope would significantly enhance healthcare accessibility for everyone and reduce congestion issues that have been plaguing emergency departments in government hospitals.

“Additionally, an increase in the allocation per visit per year is paramount to ensuring equitable access to better medications,” it added.

Hartal Doktor Kontrak also urged the government to increase the healthcare allocation to a minimum of 5% of Malaysia’s gross domestic product (GDP).

“The current allocation of 1.98% of the GDP is insufficient to meet the escalating healthcare demands of the population.

“Increasing the allocation to 5% of Malaysia’s GDP aligns with the World Health Organisation’s recommendations and global benchmarks for public healthcare spending.

“Given the escalating prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia, nationwide prevention and promotion initiatives require substantial financial reinforcement,” it said.

The group added that NCDs account for over 73% of total deaths in Malaysia, underscoring the urgency of increased funding for prevention and management.

The movement also wants Budget 2024 to look at upgrading government hospitals and clinics nationwide to meet international healthcare standards.

It also proposed a reform in the sugar subsidy so that a portion of the funds goes towards managing diabetes-related complications.

“Higher taxes on cigarettes and alcohol have demonstrated significant efficacy in reducing consumption and associated health risks worldwide,” said the movement.

On Sept 25, Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa said she hoped the ministry would receive a higher allocation in Budget 2024.

Budget 2024 is slated to be tabled in Parliament on Oct 13.