KUALA LUMPUR – As the medical fraternity lauds the reappointment of Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad as health minister, a challenging road lies ahead for the three-term Kuala Selangor MP to steer the ministry and public healthcare in the right direction.
Despite encountering hurdles in his previous tenure, he has managed to implement extensive reforms in the health industry, earning applause from his comrades, healthcare professionals, and the public.
The Malaysian Pharmacists Society expresses confidence that under Dzulkefly’s stewardship, national healthcare and the public will witness significant and positive changes.
“We must note that Dzulkefly was the driving force behind many reforms, including palliative care (for the terminally ill and their families), patient rehabilitation, and a shift towards preventive and promotive healthcare as crucial aspects of the system.
“I believe the two-time minister is ready for any challenges, taking his job and the responsibility that comes with it very seriously,” its president, Amrahi Buang, told Scoop yesterday.
Acknowledging that there will be challenges in executing reforms due to budget constraints, he said the current government is more serious about healthcare and the interests of the people.
“Challenges include executing a digital health transformation agenda, particularly the digitalisation of healthcare records across sectors, stabilising digital systems, and enhancing hospital infrastructure, among others.
“Issues affecting doctors, nurses, and pharmacists, especially in terms of their remuneration, also need close attention,” he added.
Praising Dzulkefly for his high level of professionalism and dedication, Amrahi noted that he was the one who initiated the liberalisation of professional doctors’ fees.
“He was also willing to listen to the views of experts and hold regular engagements with stakeholders on policy decisions,” he added.
Amrahi also proposed that the health minister reevaluate the country’s healthcare financing, health literacy, and the rising cost of medicine.
The Galen Centre for Health and Social Policy urged Dzulkefly to consider four critical issues: finding a solution to sustainable healthcare financing, effectively responding to the non-communicable disease crisis, closing the gap on mental health, and preparing for the care of Malaysia’s ageing population.
Its chief executive, Azrul Mohd Khalib, said he needs to hit the ground running and will face a steep learning curve. There will be less patience, very little sympathy, and cynicism among many stakeholders.
“The health minister must act to rebuild confidence, build alliances, and regain trust,” he said.
In congratulating Dzulkefly on his return to the Health Ministry, the Malaysian Medical Association expressed hope that he would effectively manage serious issues and challenges prevalent in the healthcare sector, which will require a herculean effort.
Nevertheless, he has proved his dedication to improving healthcare standards, managing crises like the Covid-19 pandemic, and maintaining a strong presence in the political landscape.
As excitement mounts to know what his first order of business is, rest assured that Dzulkefly is a force to be reckoned with. – December 14, 2023