Kuala lumpur: Healthcare services must only be provided at premises registered or licensed under the Private Healthcare Facilities and Services Act 1998 (Act 586), according to the Ministry of Health (MOH). The ministry has highlighted the legal implications for those violating this regulation, which includes potential fines of up to RM500,000, imprisonment of up to six years, or both.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, there has been an increase in complaints and inquiries about alleged treatment activities or healthcare services at unregistered or unlicensed premises, notably those related to aesthetic medical services. The MOH has issued a statement emphasizing its commitment to strengthening the enforcement of Act 586 through continuous monitoring and investigations. This includes intelligence-based operations and targeted enforcement actions in collaboration with state health departments and relevant agencies.
Based on MOH data from 2021 to date, over 1,020 complaints have been registered concerning healthcare services at unregistered or unlicensed premises, with the number of complaints rising each year. The growing number of complaints indicates increasing public concern, particularly regarding the qualifications of individuals providing such services.
The MOH reported that out of the complaints received, 320 raids have been conducted on unregistered or unlicensed premises. Consequently, 126 investigation papers have been opened, 194 cases have received warnings and advisories, and 70 cases are either in court or have been prosecuted. The ministry encourages the public and healthcare professionals to report information or complaints through official channels ([email protected]) to facilitate appropriate, evidence-based follow-up action.
The MOH urges the public to heed advisories and statements previously issued regarding healthcare services at unregistered or unlicensed premises. The ministry reaffirms its dedication to ensuring patient and public safety and maintaining the quality of healthcare services as top priorities.