Imagine going to a private clinic and having to pay an additional charge of RM20 for each treatment, simply because of a new government regulation that requires clinics to display the price of medicines.
In the midst of the increasing cost of living, from food to daily necessities, is this a step that helps or adds to the burden on the already stressed people?
The Federation of Private Medical Practitioners Association of Malaysia (FPMPAM) explains that this charge is required to cover the cost of waste disposal, medical insurance, and compliance with data protection laws.
They argue that this regulation, although intended to increase transparency, may cause the quality of treatment to suffer due to the inevitable increase in costs.
This action is supported by the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) who voiced concerns that these additional costs could force more private clinics out of business, making it difficult for people to get the treatment they need, especially when more and more people are struggling with inflation and the high cost of living.
Transparency or burden? Only time will tell.
