Focus on real threats to patients

THE recent statements by the Federation of Malaysian Consumers Association (Fomca) and Deputy Minister of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living on the so-called “mandatory prescriptions” in private clinics suggest that they are out of touch with existing regulations and medical practice in Malaysia.

The right of patients to choose where to obtain their medications has long been embedded in the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC) Guidelines. Under the “Duty to Dispense” provision, all registered private medical clinics with dispensing facilities are required to inform patients via a prominently displayed notice that they may obtain their medication either from the clinic or any pharmacy of their choice.