KUALA LUMPUR: The National Heart Institute (IJN) has welcomed the Health Ministry's decision to engage in a constructive dialogue regarding the proposed fee review for ministry-referred patients.
IJN in a statement on Thursday (Oct 17) said it appreciated the ministry’s openness to discuss the important matter, which affects the well-being of thousands of heart patients in Malaysia.
"We are optimistic that the outcome of the discussions with MOH will be mutually beneficial, safeguarding the affordability of our services for the public, while allowing us to cover escalating costs and continue enhancing the quality of care.
"Ultimately, IJN’s priority is the health and welfare of Malaysian heart patients, and we are committed to working with the ministry to ensure that they continue to receive the best possible care at a fair and sustainable cost,” the statement said.
On Monday, Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni said a discussion will be held between the ministry and IJN to ascertain the reasons behind IJN’s request to increase its fees ranging between 10 to 40 per cent.
In the statement, IJN reiterated that its proposed increase in fees was in light of rising operational costs and the fact that its current fee structure has remained unchanged since 2003.
"This adjustment is critical to ensuring that IJN continues to deliver high-quality, affordable cardiac care while meeting the growing demand for advanced medical services.
"Our goal remains to strike a balance between maintaining cost-efficiency and sustaining our long-standing mission of serving the Malaysian community,” the statement said.- Bernama
