The Ministry of Health (MOH) has introduced a new national initiative, Empowering Patients Living with Diabetes (ERAT Programme), aimed at promoting self-management and improving diabetes care among Malaysians affected by the condition.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad announced that the programme was developed in collaboration with the Malaysian Pharmacists Society (MPS) and Novo Nordisk. He emphasised that the initiative represents a significant step towards revolutionising diabetes care and support in Malaysia.
According to Dr Dzulkefly, an estimated 3.6 million adults in Malaysia are living with diabetes, with many unaware of their condition.
He highlighted that the Diabetes Medication Therapy Adherence Clinics (DMTAC), a pharmacist-led service that has been running since 2000. DMTAC plays a key role in diabetes management and it operates closely with doctors and other healthcare professionals to ensure better treatment outcomes.
Local studies conducted by DMTAC in hospitals and health clinics have revealed significant advancements in blood sugar control among patients. This improvement not only showcases the effectiveness of the initiatives implemented by DMTAC but also underscores the importance of patient education in managing diabetes effectively.
He added that the ERAT Programme is part of MOH’s broader efforts to transform the nation’s health services, focusing on capacity building, health literacy, and empowering patients to take charge of their own care.
Source: BERNAMA
