Specialist Doctors Attempt To Cheat Private Hospitals Foiled

PUTRAJAYA, Jan 29 (Bernama) -- Attempts by two specialist doctors to cheat two private hospitals by claiming to possess false qualifications and working experience had been uncovered.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek said their activities were traced after the two hospitals referred their credentials to the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC).
He added implementation of the Private Healthcare Facilities and Services Act 1998 last year made it easier for the ministry to cross-check academic qualifications and working experience of specialist doctors with MMC.
"The main condition for those vying to become doctors is three years experience upon graduation and for specialists at least five years after passing as specialists," he told reporters after receiving a cheque for RM50,000 from Pantai Holdings Berhad in aid of Johor flood victims, here Monday.
Earlier, Chua who had a dialogue session with private hospitals said if found guilty the specialist doctors could be fined a maximum RM300,000 or six months jail or both.
The Private Healthcare Facilities and Services Act 1998 that became effective on May 1 last year compelled private hospitals to be responsible in ensuring that their specialists have the necessary qualifications.
The Act also listed the fees charged by doctors nationwide.
Chua said since enforcement of the Act, the ministry received 46 complaints on the quality of services by private hospitals last year with more expected this year.
He added this was because patients were aware of their rights and action to be taken by the ministry.
Most of the complaints were regarding the charges, poor services and inadequate facilities.

On aid to flood victims, Chua said non-governmental organisations (NGOs) that wished to help in health services should contact the ministry to facilitate aid work.
"For example there was an NGO that gave flu injections to 1,000 people while there were 200,000 people. This is something not needed as it led to dissatisfaction among flood victims," he added.
Chua said flu was not important as during flood it was necessary to ensure personal hygiene and that drinking water was boiled.