Transparency necessary in private healthcare fees for patient protection
IN a written reply at the Dewan Rakyat on March 4, 2025, the Health Ministry informed that professional consultation fees are regulated under the Private Healthcare Facilities and Services Act 1998 (Act 586).
However, facilities fees – which include the costs of consumables like gauze, needles, syringes, supplements such as Vitamin C, medical equipment, lab charges and others, are not directly regulated.
MCA wishes to re-emphasise the importance of ensuring transparency and fairness in the pricing practices of private healthcare facilities
In light of this, we urge all private healthcare providers to be upfront and transparent about their pricing structure for these consumables and services. It is imperative that patients, whether insured or not, are fully informed about the costs they will incur before any treatment or services are administered. This includes clear and accessible information on additional charges beyond consultation fees, such as those for medical devices, lab tests and consumables.
Our party strongly advocates that private healthcare facilities must uphold the principle of transparency and do not take advantage of patients covered by private medical insurance or those using guarantee letters. We encourage all healthcare providers to adopt practices that foster trust and fairness, ensuring that patients are not burdened by unexpected, hidden or unclear charges.
In accordance with the Act 586, it is essential that medical specialists in the private sector adhere to clearly defined and published fee structures and that grievance procedures are in place for patients to resolve any disputes regarding pricing or services. Financial counselling services should be offered to patients prior to treatment, providing an estimate of total treatment costs and allowing for better financial planning.
Initiatives that promote price transparency and curb medical inflation, ensuring that patients have access to affordable and high-quality care without the fear of exploitation or hidden charges need to be supported and upheld.
Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon
MCA Deputy President
