The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) has reiterated its call for an urgent review and approval of general practitioner (GP) consultation fees, following a joint memorandum submitted to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) on 6 May 2025. The memorandum, prepared in collaboration with other GP organisations, highlighted the pressing issue of stagnant fees and broader concerns affecting private primary care providers.

The PMO responded positively, acknowledging that GP consultation fees have remained unchanged for 33 years and instructed the Ministry of Health (MOH) to present the matter to the Cabinet. Since then, the MMA and its partner associations have met with MOH officials, presenting what they describe as a clear, evidence-based case to support a fee adjustment.

President of the MMA, Dato’ Dr Kalwinder Singh Khaira, stressed that the justification provided should be seriously considered, warning that continued delay would further threaten the viability of GP clinics across the country.

The association also expressed hope that the National Action Council on Cost of Living (NACCOL), chaired by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, would evaluate the issue with urgency and objectivity. Kalwinder also said MMA had requested the opportunity to present its concerns directly to the council, emphasising the growing challenges faced by GPs nationwide.

“It is disheartening to note that, although private GPs receive no government funding, they are still expected by some to operate as if they are offering a public service.

“GPs have families too, and if these clinics cannot sustain themselves, the repercussions will be felt across the healthcare system, including reduced access to primary care, overcrowded emergency departments, and a decline in preventive services, all of which lead to poorer health outcomes.”

He added that GP clinics play a critical role in relieving the daily burden on public clinics and hospitals, effectively acting as the frontline of the national health system.

“This long-awaited fee revision is not about profit, nor should it be stalled over concerns about healthcare inflation, which occurs predominantly in secondary and tertiary care. It is about ensuring the survival of primary care, which is the most cost-effective component of our health system.”

• TAGS:
• Consultation Fees
• Fees
• GP
• GP Fee
• Malaysian Medical Association
• MMA