Health minister warns insurance and takaful provider intervention in clinical decisions at private hospitals contradicts existing healthcare laws

KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Health has warned that any action undermining the freedom of medical practitioners to treat patients may be inconsistent with existing laws.

Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the matter is taken seriously following concerns over interference by insurance, takaful, and third-party administrator providers in treatment management at private hospitals.

He stated such intervention could potentially influence doctors’ clinical decisions.

Any form of this interference contradicts provisions under the Private Healthcare Facilities and Services Act 1998, which safeguards the professional responsibilities of practitioners.

The ministry plays an active role through the Health Complaint Mechanism Committee.

This platform involves multiple stakeholders including Bank Negara Malaysia, the Malaysian Medical Association, and the Association of Private Hospitals of Malaysia.

Representatives from insurance companies, takaful operators, and TPAs also participate to discuss and resolve raised issues.

Dr Dzulkefly described it as a committee to find thorough solutions for concerns raised collectively with stakeholders.

He was speaking during a question-and-answer session in the Dewan Rakyat.

 The Sun Malaysia