KUALA LUMPUR: Every major road accident places additional pressure on the public healthcare system, as critical resources are also needed by other patients, says Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad (pic).
He said blood supplies, imaging facilities, operating theatres, emergency departments and specialist teams have to be mobilised to treat victims of road crashes.
“We know that whenever major road accidents occur, they place a significant burden on public healthcare facilities.
“This includes pressure on blood supplies, as well as on our doctors, trauma teams and the entire emergency response system.
“Our healthcare workers, including Health Ministry staff, are always ready to respond.
“However, the critical resources mobilised during such incidents are also needed by other patients,” he said, referring to the fatal accidents linked to the recent RXZ Members 8.0 event.
As such, Dzulkefly said road safety must be given serious attention, adding that preventing road accidents is not only a matter of enforcement but also a public health responsibility.
He said motorcycle convoys and large-scale motoring events should be organised responsibly, with proper safety measures in place.
“People may continue to enjoy their hobbies, but this must never come at the cost of lives or place unnecessary pressure on our healthcare system,” he said after the opening of the newly renovated Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) headquarters here yesterday.
Meanwhile, MMA president Datuk Dr Thirunavukarasu Rajoo said greater collaboration is crucial to strengthening the country’s healthcare system.
“Healthcare is a whole-of-society and whole-of-nation responsibility. It is not the responsibility of the Health Ministry alone.
“We also need strong support from agencies such as the Public Service Department, Finance Ministry and Higher Education Ministry, as well as firm support from the Prime Minister,” he noted.
“With a large proportion of the population relying on the healthcare system, addressing its challenges must be a shared responsibility. We need to work together to find solutions.
“We also urge the media to continue highlighting these concerns. This is not about pointing fingers or assigning blame, but about ensuring that the problems are acknowledged and practical solutions are found,” Dr Thirunavukarasu added.
Separately, Dzulkefly said appropriate action had been taken following the outcome of an investigation into allegations of sexual assault and workplace bullying involving a hospital director in Sabah.
“We have received the findings and are taking the necessary action in line with the current regulations,” he said.
On July 23, the Sabah Health Department said action was being taken in accordance with procedures following a detailed investigation into the allegations, which had been completed by a special committee appointed by the Health Ministry.
