Seberang Jaya:George Town Hospital Seberang Jaya (HSJ) has become the first Level 2 hospital in Peninsular Malaysia to provide angiogram and angioplasty procedures, marking a significant advancement in cardiac care for residents of Seberang Perai and nearby regions.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim applauded the hospital's staff for this development, noting that the expansion is anticipated to decrease waiting times and lessen the necessity for patients to seek treatment at Penang Hospital (HPP). Anwar expressed his appreciation for the healthcare personnel involved, highlighting the importance of such services in enhancing public confidence in Malaysia's healthcare system.

Penang State Cardiology Services head, Datuk Dr Mohamed Jahangir Abdul Wahab, noted that the establishment of HSJ's Invasive Cardiology Laboratory, which supports coronary angiogram and angioplasty, demonstrates the government's dedication to improving healthcare accessibility. Dr Mohamed Jahangir emphasized that the initiative is aligned with efforts to ensure prompt and quality cardiac care is available closer to patients' homes.

He further explained that with the increasing incidence of cardiovascular diseases, expanding adult cardiology services at HSJ is a strategic move. Plans are in place to develop HSJ into a comprehensive heart treatment center by mid-2027, which will include managing complex cardiology cases and introducing cardiothoracic surgical services.

The development of adult cardiology services at HSJ began in 2023, with the initial posting of a resident cardiologist. This was followed by regular specialist rotations, eventually leading to the establishment of the Cardiology Unit, which features an Invasive Cardiology Laboratory equipped with modern technology.

Dr Mohamed Jahangir stated that this initiative not only boosts cardiac treatment capacity in Penang but also positions HSJ as a major cardiovascular referral center for the northern region of Peninsular Malaysia.