KUALA LUMPUR: A proper rollout of the diagnosis-related group (DRG) payment model could take more than six months given the complexities in data gathering and analysis, says the Association of Private Hospitals Malaysia (APHM), adding that it is ready to provide any help.
Its president Datuk Dr Kuljit Singh said accurate clinical data and a national electronic health record system is needed for any DRG-type mechanism to work
He said this foundational data is not available yet.
"As the process of gathering and analysing such data is complex and time-consuming, APHM anticipates that a proper rollout will require considerably more than six months," he said.
Dr Kuljit also said the APHM welcomed Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad's announcement that a basic medical and health insurance/takaful product would be introduced later this year and the DRG rolled out in phases.
To support this national initiative, Dr Kuljit said APHM member hospitals have offered to share relevant clinical data with the Health Ministry and the Finance Ministry.
"APHM strongly advocates that adequate time and resources are allocated to ensure that the DRG initiative is thoroughly conceptualised, piloted and implemented, to ultimately deliver sustainable improvements for all Malaysians," he said.
The DRG payment system involves paying a fixed sum based on the diagnosis and treatment provided, rather than itemising each charge.
It is said the DRG model can help regulate medical costs by limiting excessive charges.
Examples of countries that have implemented this are Sweden, Canada and Australia.
Earlier, in his opening speech, Dr Dzulkefly said introducing DRG in phases to pay for healthcare services, beginning with the base medical and health insurance/takaful products, would be a key driver for value-based healthcare.
He also said the Health Ministry is hoping to introduce the DRG payment model by the end of 2025.
