Painful cost of healthcare

Priced out: A patient receiving an injection from a doctor. In its 2024 annual report, which was released a month ago, Bank Negara raised the issue of high costs of HSS, such as drugs, laboratory fees and consumables. — AZHAR MAHFOF/The Star

PETALING JAYA: Baby wipes at RM18.80. An ice bag at RM43.35. RM1.60 for a paper wrist band to indicate that the patient is a “fall risk”. These are examples of consumables and items charged by a private hospital in Selangor.

Patients have to pay for such consumables once they undergo a procedure or surgery in private hospitals.