The government has a free health screening programme called the PeKa B40 scheme, designed to help Malaysians from the B40 income group stay healthy. Since its launch in 2019, it has been available to almost seven million recipients of the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR).

Recent figures show a worrying trend. As of May this year, only 1.6 million people have taken advantage of this free service. This means over five million eligible Malaysians are missing out on an opportunity to catch potential health problems early, which could save them from significant financial hardship in the future. Let’s explore what the PeKa B40 scheme offers and why so many people are not using it.

What The PeKa B40 Scheme Provides

The PeKa B40 scheme is more than a basic check-up. It is a comprehensive health screening initiative from the Ministry of Health aimed at preventing non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Eligible individuals receive a package of free healthcare services.

This includes basic screenings, a physical examination, blood and urine tests, and two follow-up consultations with a doctor to discuss the results. Beyond the screening, the scheme also offers additional support. This includes aid for medical devices, support for completing cancer treatments, and even transport subsidies to help patients get to their appointments. This complete package is designed to remove financial barriers to good health.

The Reasons Behind The Low Uptake

If the health screening is free, why are millions of people avoiding it? According to ProtectHealth Corporation, the organisation managing the scheme, several factors contribute to the low numbers.

Many individuals in the B40 group say they lack the time or cannot afford to take a day off work for a health check. For daily wage earners, missing a day of work means losing a day’s income, a sacrifice many feel they cannot make. Another significant reason is fear. Many people admit they would rather not know if they have a serious illness because they are worried about the potential costs of treatment. This “better not to know” mindset, combined with work priorities, prevents them from seeking preventive care.

The High Financial Cost of Late Diagnosis

Avoiding a free health check today could lead to much bigger bills tomorrow. Many serious conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol are known as ‘silent’ diseases because they often show no symptoms in the early stages. Regular screenings can detect these non-communicable diseases before they become critical.

When these conditions are discovered late, they are often more difficult and expensive to treat. This can lead to hospitalisation, long-term medication, and a reduced ability to work, placing a heavy financial burden on the individual and their family. On a national level, a 2017 study found that NCDs cost the Malaysian economy an estimated RM12.8 billion annually in productivity losses alone. By taking advantage of free screenings, you can take an important step towards securing both your physical health and your financial well-being. You can also explore how different types of insurance plans can provide a financial safety net against unexpected medical costs.

How To Check Your Eligibility And Get Screened

Finding out if you qualify for the PeKa B40 scheme is simple and straightforward. If you are a recipient of the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and are aged 40 or above, you are likely eligible.

You can confirm your eligibility by visiting the official PeKa B40 website and entering your identification card number. Once confirmed, you can visit any of the participating private clinics or government health clinics (klinik kesihatan) to receive your free screening. Taking this small step can provide peace of mind and help you plan for a healthier future.

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• TAGS:
• Medical
• PeKa B40
• Sumabangan Tunai Rahmah