KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Health Department has defended Queen Elizabeth Hospital's (QEH) "zero pending" system following allegations involving staff conduct and preferential treatment at its emergency and trauma department.
In a statement, the department said efficient patient management at QEH was critical as the hospital is the main referral centre for Sabah and Labuan.
It said the system was implemented in line with the Health Ministry's patient flow management guidelines for hospitals (2022) and the MyLean Awareness Module, aimed at reducing overcrowding in emergency wards.
Measures introduced include better coordination of bed usage through the Bed Management Unit, the establishment of multidisciplinary wards and improved discharge planning using the Expected Date of Discharge system.
The department said the initiative, implemented since Jan 29 this year, had yielded positive results, with more efficient bed usage, shorter waiting times for ward admissions and a noticeable reduction in congestion at the emergency department.
The statement comes following an online portal report, which raised concerns over the "zero pending" system at QEH.
On allegations of preferential treatment, the department said services are provided fairly regardless of background, with bed allocation based strictly on clinical needs and availability.
"Any conduct that violates professional ethics will be dealt with firmly in accordance with regulations," it said.
The department added that the system would be further strengthened through continuous improvements, including regular engagement with stakeholders and periodic reviews to enhance patient management while safeguarding healthcare workers' well-being.
It also acknowledged the commitment and sacrifices of healthcare workers who continue to serve despite heavy workloads, adding that all feedback would be reviewed to ensure safe, quality and effective healthcare services in Sabah.
