More ministry engagement with healthcare workers will help refine system, says MMA

PETALING JAYA: More dialogue sessions between the Health Ministry and public healthcare workers can help improve the healthcare system, says the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA).

Its president Dr Muruga Raj Rajathurai said on Wednesday (Aug 16) he welcomed efforts by the Health Minister to engage with public healthcare workers, as seen during her recent visit to Kuala Terengganu.

Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa held a dialogue session with ministry staff at Hospital Sultanah Nur Zahirah there on Sunday (Aug 13).

She said several issues raised were being addressed, such as allowances for the transfer of medical officers to Sabah and Sarawak, lowering of the grade of pharmacy and dental officers appointed to the permanent scheme, and the digitalisation of the health system.

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Dr Muruga Raj said the inclusiveness demonstrated by the Health Ministry was welcomed and appreciated.

"Allowing opportunities for healthcare workers to openly express themselves and speak up on matters will be an effective (way to understand) the issues on the ground.

"Such open discussions can only improve the system and healthcare delivery for the people," he said in a statement.

Dr Muruga Raj added that engaging with healthcare workers at every level should be an important step in the implementation of government policies.

"Having a team of advisors is of course important. However, these dialogue sessions serve as a platform that will allow the Health Minister to get to the heart of issues through direct feedback from healthcare workers," he said.