Hidden costs in transfers

IN recent days, there have been many reports in the media about irregularities in the acquisition of medicines for Malaysia’s government hospitals. Tenders are also in place for other activities like repairs and upkeep of hospital buildings, running of hospital canteens, sanitation and laundry, purchase and servicing of medical equipment (consumables and non-consumables) and non-medical equipment (air conditioners, furniture, etc).

The modus operandi in granting these tenders differ little from the procurement of medicines. The excesses linked to poor practices in granting tenders explain why hospitals run out of money for things like essential medicines before the fiscal year ends.