Kuala Lampur:The Association of Private Hospitals Malaysia (APHM) has called for Malaysia's Budget 2027 to prioritize disease prevention, health education, and the establishment of a stronger culture of health. The focus is on addressing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and lifestyle-related risk factors as central to healthcare reform.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, APHM president Datuk Dr Kuljit Singh emphasized that a significant number of NCDs, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and obesity, are heavily influenced by lifestyle, diet, and environmental factors that can be prevented, delayed, or better managed.
Dr Kuljit highlighted the proposals from the Galen Centre, an independent public policy research and advocacy organization, which include the removal of sugar subsidies and implementing stronger fiscal measures to discourage unhealthy consumption. These proposals deserve serious consideration by policymakers, he noted.
Additionally, Dr Kuljit suggested that the government redirect resources to make healthier choices more accessible and affordable. This could be achieved through subsidies for fresh fruits and vegetables, whole and minimally processed foods, community exercise programs, and nutrition education.
He also mentioned that Budget 2027 offers an opportunity to integrate healthy behaviors into everyday life rather than relying solely on individual effort. This approach should extend to screening and early detection, with targeted subsidies and public funding making NCD screening and preventive care more accessible, particularly for those who might otherwise delay treatment due to cost.
Dr Kuljit further remarked that individuals should not be discouraged from seeking early diagnosis due to concerns over the impact on insurance coverage, employment, or other aspects of their lives.
In terms of healthcare delivery, Dr Kuljit advocated for continued support for the Hospital Services Outsourcing Programme, which could alleviate capacity constraints in the public healthcare system by allowing public hospitals to outsource certain cases to private providers.
Private hospitals have also suggested prioritizing the digitalization of Private Medical Practice Control Section licensing processes to improve regulatory efficiency and reduce administrative delays. They also proposed maintaining funding for key national healthcare institutions and quality assurance bodies, such as the Malaysian Medical Council, Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council, and Malaysian Society for Quality in Health.
Dr Kuljit concluded by stating that making healthier choices the easier option will significantly reduce the burden and cost on Malaysia's healthcare system in the long term.