GEORGE TOWN: The Health Ministry is awaiting an investigation report from the Private Medical Practice Control Section (CKAPS) regarding claims that a private hospital withheld a baby's remains due to the parents' inability to settle the hospital bill upfront.
Its minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad anticipates the report will be finalised by the upcoming post-Cabinet meeting next week, marking the final session for the year.
He also reassured the public that the ministry will maintain its scrutiny of private healthcare facilities nationwide, which are regulated under the Private Healthcare Facilities and Services Act 1998 (Act 586).
"This case is unusual given its background and circumstances, so we must wait for the complete findings and investigation to ensure fairness.
"We undoubtedly sympathise with this unfortunate family. However, we will continue our monitoring activities under the remit of CKAPS," he told reporters after launching the inaugural Malaysia Community First Responder Conference on Saturday (Dec 14).
The incident drew attention on social media when a private hospital in Selangor allegedly held the body of a baby boy in a morgue for 16 days because the father had not cleared the hospital bill.
In response to the allegations, the private hospital involved refuted the claims on Wednesday (Dec 11), stating that it had permitted the baby's remains to be buried prior to the payment of the hospital bill.
When questioned about the scarcity of medical staff at Hospital Seri Manjung, Perak, Dr Dzulkefly said he is awaiting a report from the concerned parties, which is being compiled by the ministry. – Bernama
