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Proposal to up medical consulation fee creates negative feelings

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KUCHING: The recent announcement by the Health Ministry to close 33 out of the 346 1Malaysia Clinics nationwide in stages as well as the proposal to increase medical consultation fee has created negative feelings among the public.

The current consultation fee of private medical practitioners, which is between RM10 and RM35, has been proposed to increase to between RM35 and RM125.

The New Sarawak Tribune took the initiative to interview few people from various walks of life to seek their view s and comments on the matter.

Yahya Semali, 35, an assistant boutique manager in a retail shop said that increasing the consultation fee would burden many people, especially those in the lower income group.

“For example if I go to clinic frequently, it will cost me a lot and will definitely be a burden to me. They must consider those in the lower income group,” he said, adding the government should find another solution to cater to the growing population that needs more health services.

Justine Peter, 29, a senior executive in a private company, said he disagreed with the announcement to close the 1Malaysia clinics.

“The 1Malaysia clinics have been providing good services to the people, especially those in the rural area. The cost is minimal and fits the low income community.

“Increasing the consultation fee is a burden because not everyone can afford to pay for the cost. In part, it doesn’t guarantee that the private clinics and hospitals will offer better treatment and service after the increase in fees,” he said.

Justine also opined that the government should upgrade the existing government clinics and hospitals and look at how to help the people to have better access to medical treatment.

Meanwhile Adi Zechariah Along, 26, a public relations assistant in a private firm, also disagreed with the announcement made by the Health Ministry.

“Although some of us have medical insurance, there are many things that need immediate attention that do not require insurance. Personally, I do not feel the burden yet because I do not need medical attention as of now,” said Adi.

However, Adi said those in the B40 group need 1Malaysia clinics because of the affordable rate.

“If the Ministry really wants to close down 1Malaysia Clinics, what will happen to those poor folks? Where can they fork out the extra money? I stand by my opinion that medical attention is one’s right and need, and should be accessible to everyone,” he said.

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