Lau urges Malaysians to exercise their welfare benefits by utilising public hospitals.
People have the right to be fully informed of charges, Sarawak consumer group says
The case of a mother who claimed she had to pay double the estimated cost for treatment at a private hospital in Sibu, Sarawak, has raised concerns over transparency in medical charges.
National Consumer Action Council (MTPN) chairman Lucas Lau said the mother took her daughter to a private hospital for medical attention following a fall.
The mother claimed an emergency department staff initially informed her that the estimated cost of treatment would be around RM4,000.
However, upon completion of all medical procedures, the family was presented with a final bill exceeding RM8,000, leaving them shocked.
Seeking redress, the mother contacted Lau, who voiced concern over such practices.
Consumers have the right to be clearly and fully informed of treatment costs and must provide informed consent before any medical procedure is performed, Lau said.
“This lack of transparency in charging violates one of the eight fundamental consumer rights, namely the right to information,” he said in a media statement.
He added that this right was protected under Consumer Protection Act 1999, particularly Section 3, which guarantees consumers access to accurate information and protection against misleading practices.
“MTPN wishes to remind all private hospitals in Malaysia that consumers have an absolute right to know the prices of services, both with and without insurance coverage,” said Lau.
“Overcharging insured patients will eventually lead to higher insurance premiums, which in turn increases the cost of living for the public.
“The right to know the price forms the foundation of consumer justice,” he stressed.
Lau also urged Malaysians to consider government hospitals as their primary option for medical treatment.
He said with continued government funding, public hospitals were able to provide comprehensive and quality healthcare services, supported by experienced medical professionals.
“Utilising government hospital facilities is a right and a welfare benefit that should be fully exercised by all Malaysians.”
He added that MTPN encouraged people from all walks of life to consider public hospitals for their healthcare needs.
On the issue of medical charges, MTPN advises the public to be proactive by asking questions, requesting written explanations and confirming the full cost of treatment before signing any consent form, to avoid unexpected financial burdens.
