Implement National Health Insurance Carefully, Says Chua

KUALA LUMPUR -- The National Health Insurance Scheme, as proposed in the Ninth Malaysia Plan, has to be implemented carefully to ensure it is accepted by people at all levels of society, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek told the Dewan Rakyat Thursday. He said while the scheme was proposed with a noble intention to offset the high medical cost borne by the government and the people, the ministry was aware of the implications and obstacles from financing of the scheme. "Planning for the scheme will take into account studies commissioned by the government, inputs and feedback from various parties, including from the public and private sectors and non-governmental organisations. "The government is also studying various models, including experiences of foreign countries," he said in his written reply to Datuk Suhaili Abdul Rahman (BN-Labuan). The scheme, whose implementation mechanism and date have not been finalised, would provide the people better access to medical treatment and help check spiralling medical costs, he said. "The scheme will also provide more flexibility and freedom in opting for the preferred healthcare either in the public or private sector," he said. While the national insurance scheme was compulsory for all Malaysian citizens and permanent residents, the people would not be prevented from buying private health, accident or life insurance, he said. The government would ensure nobody was deprived access to quality, efficient and comprehensive healthcare, he added.

25 October 2007, By BERNAMA