KUALA LUMPUR: More focus will be given towards enhancing healthcare delivery service following the rolling out of the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP).
This will be done through the formulation and implementation of several action plans and policies aimed at redesigning the healthcare system as well as strengthening awareness on health financing and public awareness.
According to the 12MP report, the government will introduce a blueprint for Malaysia's Healthcare System reform.
"In designing this blueprint, a study will be undertaken to strengthen the healthcare sector landscape. This study will include public healthcare sector transformation, private healthcare sector regulatory reform and sustainable health financing.
"Several policies targeting specific health needs will be introduced, such as oral healthcare, mental health and immunisation policies.
"In addition, food safety policies will be reviewed to protect the public against health hazards and fraud in the food supply chain including preparation, sale and use of food," the report said.
A national strategic plan, the report said, will be formulated to address mental health issues covering among others measures for prevention, intervention and treatment.
"Campaigns and services related to mental health will be enhanced to educate and increase awareness through concerted efforts with related agencies, volunteers and community-based organisations (CBO).
"In addition, the national suicide registry will be established to assist in formulating effective measures in addressing the rising suicide rate," said the report.
The government will also formulate a master plan on healthcare facilities and human resources. This, said the report, is to strengthen the capacity and capability of healthcare personnel as well as improve facilities.
"The design for new healthcare facilities will be refined to fulfil post-Covid-19 requirements.
"The cluster hospital concept will be expanded to include more public hospitals, including teaching hospitals and health clinics with accessibility to specialists' services," the report said.
The government, said the report, will focus on improving aged healthcare facilities especially for those above 50 as well as to look into obsolete medical equipment.
