Private hospitals group lauds exemption of post-basic qualification for foreign nurses

KUALA LUMPUR: The Health Ministry’s decision to exempt foreign nurses from having to obtain a Post-Basic Qualification to work in private hospitals will help assist public hospital patients as part of the Public-Private Partnership, says the Association of Private Hospitals Malaysia.

Its president Datuk Dr Kuljit Singh said this alleviate the strain on private hospitals due to the ongoing congestion, and allow private hospitals to create more beds.

“This exemption will help private hospitals serve public hospital patients as part of the Public-Private Partnership, and the advantage will not be limited to private paying patients.

“Previously, only foreign Post-Basic Nurses were allowed to work in the country, which was strictly regulated,” he said in a statement on Monday (Sept 11).

Dr Kuljit said the association received a letter from the Registrar of the Nursing Board, Health Ministry, saying that the exemption will be given from Oct 1, 2023 to Sept 30, 2024, with additional extensions granted based on re-application and approvals.

"Our repeated request has been granted, and patients seeking private care will now have better access and earlier admittance with available beds.

"Private Hospitals would like to thank Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa, and the Registrar of the Nursing Board, Devi Saravana Muthu, for their assistance in this matter,” he added.

Dr Kuljit said in recent years, particularly following Covid-19, the demand for regular trained nurses has increased steadily as the country’s skilled local nurses have gone overseas for greater pay.

He said Malaysia has a great potential to be a healthcare hub for local patients and medical tourists.

“This initiative by the Health Ministry demonstrates their concern for private healthcare delivery that supplements public healthcare.

"We hope that the Healthcare White Paper will enhance the public-private collaboration, allowing individuals to receive appropriate care on time, regardless of their financial situation, and ensuring the long-term viability of the workforce," he added.