KUALA LUMPUR: All Flying Doctor Service (FDS) in Sarawak have been temporarily suspended to pave the way for safety reviews and investigations into the fatal crash in Long Lellang, says Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.
“All FDS operations in Sarawak have been temporarily suspended to allow the relevant parties to conduct investigations and review safety and operational mechanisms,” the Health Minister said on Wednesday (Sept 9).
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Dzulkefly said the ministry will be working with the Fire and Rescue Department to carry out medical evacuation services for emergency cases during this time.
“At the same time, the ministry will hold further discussions with the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) to explore the use of its assets to evacuate patients requiring emergency treatment to appropriate healthcare facilities,” he said.
He said the ministry will conduct a comprehensive assessment of the overall FDS service delivery framework in Sarawak, including contracts, governance, operational safety, coverage requirements and the effectiveness of the existing service delivery model.
“The assessment aims to ensure that the approach implemented in the future is safer, resilient, sustainable and responsive to the healthcare needs of communities in rural areas of Sarawak,” he added.
The ministry is reassessing the locations and methods of accessing FDS services, including alternative modes of transport and other safe and practical approaches, to ensure that communities in rural areas continue to have access to healthcare services.
“We understand the difficulties and challenges that may arise from this temporary suspension.
"Nevertheless, the safety of healthcare personnel and patients remains our priority, while ensuring the continuity of healthcare service delivery to communities in rural areas,” he said.
Dzulkefly said the ministry will continue to monitor the situation from time to time and provide updates as appropriate.
On Tuesday(Sept 8), a helicopter carrying five FDS personnel—four Health Ministry staff and one pilot—crashed in Long Lellang. All five onboard were killed in the tragic crash.
