More government clinics to extend operating hours

Star: PUTRAJAYA: All state health department directors have been asked to submit applications to extend the operating hours for government clinics to 9.30pm or even later.
This followed the good response to the 16 clinics already providing such late-hours services since last year, said Health Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai.
If needed, the ministry was even prepared to increase the number of such clinics up to three times the current number.
There are about 800 government clinics nationwide.
On another matter, Liow said the ministry would be providing communication skills training to its medical staff to reduce the 1,896 complaints received from the public last year.
He added the ministry took seriously the complaints, as well as another 34 registered with the Public Complaints Bureau under the Prime Minister’s Department.
Liow said complaints included rude behaviour by medical staff; uncaring attitude and failing to inform patients and family members about the medical conditions.
“There were also complaints over delays in releasing medical reports but the ministry has already tackled the problem by directing all hospitals to issue them within eight weeks,” said Liow after launching the Health Ministry Corporate Culture Campaign here yesterday.
Although there were close to 2,000 complaints, Liow said the ministry also received 3,184 commendations.
“We have to bear in mind that we have the same number of medical staff as privately-run facilities, but we attend to 80% of total patients nationwide.
“They work during the festive seasons when most other people are enjoying their leave; and often even during their meal times too. They should be given credit for this,” he said.