The Malaysian Pharmaceutical Society (MPS) has given full support for the government’s new regulation requiring private hospitals and clinics to display medicine prices, which will start on 1st May. This move under the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) aims to enhance transparency in healthcare service pricing.
The MPS President emphasized that the regulations apply to community pharmacies and will now extend to private healthcare providers. This will enable the patients and consumers to be aware of the selling prices of the medicines provided to them. As consumers, they have the right to be informed and compare prices before making purchases.
The government’s initiative aligns with its border commitment to price transparency in healthcare services. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad stated that private hospitals and clinics have not opposed this proposal, although some general practitioners (GPs) have raised concerns and requested for flexibility in its implementation.
To facilitate this transition, the government has expressed willingness to cover related costs, to ensure that private healthcare providers can give in with the directive without financial strain. An official gazette is expected to be issued soon, that the display prices of medicine will not only be available in private hospitals and clinics but also pharmacies and dental clinics.
The MPS President further noted that the price display could be implemented through various means including Point Of Sales (POS) system or relevant computer software and application. Large and small chain pharmacies as well as independent pharmacies can use digital solutions to comply with this requirement, adding that MPS is prepared to assist the community pharmacies in managing any challenges they may face.
Meanwhile, the Association of Private Hospitals of Malaysia (APHM) has agreed and welcomed the government’s initiative. Its president, Datuk Dr Kuljit Singh, assured that all APHM member hospitals will agree to the Health Ministry’s directive and display medicine prices starting 1st May.
This measure is expected to empower consumers with more awareness and choice when purchasing medicines, fostering a more transparent and fair healthcare system in Malaysia.
Sources: NST
