IPOH: Rising insurance premiums could be one of the reasons why even those in the T20 bracket are increasingly seeking treatment at public hospitals, says Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.
He said that while T20 households are generally able to afford private healthcare through insurance or out-of-pocket payments, higher costs of medical coverage may cause some to reconsider.
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“We cannot rule that out. If insurance premiums, whether conventional or takaful, continue rising, not only the M40 but even the T20 may reconsider their policies.
“This is why it is very important to mitigate and control insurance costs,” he told reporters after attending the Perak-level Amanah convention here on Sunday (Sept 7).
Dzulkefly had been asked to comment on a Malay language daily’s article that Hospital Kuala Lumpur (HKL) no longer only serves low-income patients, as more wealthy individuals are seeking treatment at the facility.
HKL director Datuk Dr Harikrishna KR Nair had been quoted as saying that the hospital is seeing a growing number of T20 and VIP patients.
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Dzulkefly was also asked if rising insurance premiums could be a contributing factor.
Dzulkefly added that there must be cooperation among insurance companies, takaful operators, Bank Negara, and private medical providers to address medical inflation, which is significantly higher than the national average inflation rate.
He said that while public hospitals are open to all Malaysians, the issue warrants closer study, particularly in the context of targeted subsidies.
“Public hospitals nationwide are not exclusive to the B40 group.
“However, we know that the T20, who are more capable, usually have insurance or pay out of pocket for private hospitals.
“Still, there are some cases where they seek treatment in public hospitals, especially during emergencies when referrals are made,” he said.
He added that the ministry would continue monitoring the situation to ensure fair access and sustainable healthcare financing.
“This matter needs careful follow-up, particularly regarding whether or not targeted subsidies will also apply to charges when T20 patients receive treatment in public hospitals,” he said.
