Tuesday, 24 Dec 2024
PETALING JAYA: The Health Ministry is introducing the Rakan KKM programme, a groundbreaking initiative to enhance public healthcare services by offering “premium economy” options for patients at selected government hospitals.
This programme will pilot in five hospitals, including Hospital Cyberjaya, providing services like specialist choice, personalised care, and upgraded ward privacy for outpatient, daycare, and inpatient services—all at prices below private hospital rates.
Benefits for Patients and the Public Healthcare System
The Rakan KKM initiative aims to reinvest additional revenue directly into the public healthcare system, ensuring improved services for all patients. Unlike the Full Paying Patient (FPP) system, this programme compensates healthcare workers beyond specialists, incentivizing participation while maintaining affordable public healthcare access.
Sustainability and Private Insurance Coverage
Budget 2025 has allocated RM25 million for the initiative’s launch, with talks underway to include private insurance coverage. Initial feedback from insurance companies has been positive, potentially easing costs for participants.
Expert Opinions
Malaysian Medical Association president Datuk Dr Kalwinder Singh Khaira sees potential benefits for Malaysia’s M40 group, emphasizing the programme’s focus on reinvestment and healthcare worker retention.
Healthcare systems expert Dr Khor Swee Kheng suggested that data from the earlier FPP scheme could guide the programme’s implementation. Meanwhile, Prof Dr Sharifa Ezat Wan Puteh proposed additional incentives, like discounted rates and specialised care for retirees, to broaden the scheme’s appeal.
If successful, the Rakan KKM programme could redefine public healthcare by balancing affordability and quality, ensuring better outcomes for Malaysians across income levels.
Source: The Star