The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) is set to hold public hearing sessions to address the rising costs of health insurance and takaful premiums, as well as the increasing fees charged by private hospitals. The discussions will also examine the broader implications of these price surges on public healthcare. These sessions will take place under the purview of the Finance Ministry, the Health Ministry, and Bank Negara Malaysia.

PAC announced that these hearings are in response to public grievances regarding significant price increases in private hospital charges and insurance premiums, which have had an impact on public healthcare services.

The first hearing is scheduled to take place at the AC Marriott Hotel in Bukit Jambul, Penang, on 14 February, from 9 a.m. to noon. The second session will be held on 21 February at the Banquet Hall, Main Block of the Malaysian Parliament in the federal capital, also from 9 a.m. to noon.

The committee also aims to provide an open platform where views from all parties can be heard and considered. The insights gathered during these sessions will be incorporated into the PAC’s report before it is presented in Parliament.

The committee acknowledged the interim measures introduced by the government and Bank Negara Malaysia to cap insurance premium hikes. However, it emphasised the need for a sustainable, long-term solution to address the issue effectively.

With this objective in mind, PAC intends to support the government in drafting a private healthcare reform framework. This will be achieved through comprehensive proceedings that involve all relevant stakeholders, ensuring that public input and feedback are adequately considered.

Additionally, the committee confirmed that it will conduct closed-door proceedings under Standing Order 85 of the Standing Orders of the Dewan Rakyat. These sessions will summon key stakeholders, including representatives from relevant ministries, government departments, and agencies, to provide further insights and clarifications following the public hearings.

PAC encourages members of the public to participate in these hearings. This includes complainants who have raised concerns against insurance companies and private hospitals, insurance policyholders, consumer association representatives, insurance company representatives, private hospital management and staff, specialist doctors, non-governmental organisations, and all concerned citizens.

Those wishing to attend the hearings are required to register by completing the Google Form available at the following link: https://parlimenmalaysia.info/kehadiranpesertapublichearing.

(Source: The Star)

• TAGS:
• Bank Negara Malaysia
• BNM
• Fees
• Finance Ministry
• Health Insurance
• Health Ministry
• Insurance
• Medical
• Medical Insurance
• PAC
• Public Accounts Committee