Include university, military hospitals in digital health network, says MMA

The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) is urging the government to incorporate university and military hospitals into the national electronic medical records system. Dr R Thirunavukarasu, president of the MMA, welcomed the RM1 billion funding for enhancing the EMR system and connectivity across public healthcare facilities. However, he emphasized the need to connect separate parts of the system that are currently operating independently.

Patients frequently move between these healthcare systems, necessitating the safe transfer of health information. Currently, around 50 private hospitals and over 3,000 private general practitioners are connected via the Malaysia Digital Health Certification Network, enabling seamless sharing of health information among participating facilities. The MMA is collaborating with the health ministry to onboard more general practitioners into the network and strengthen ties between public and private healthcare providers.

Thirunavukarasu cautioned against allocating the RM1 billion solely towards software development, as many public healthcare facilities are outdated and require improved computers, internet connections, and other supporting equipment. He stressed the importance of planning for cybersecurity, maintenance, and future upgrades to ensure the system's reliable operation.

Moreover, he advocated for adequate training of doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers, asserting that the new technology should streamline their work rather than generate additional paperwork.

He also demanded a precise timeline for implementation, specific targets, and clarity on how the RM1 billion will be expended. Thirunavukarasu stressed that the investment should facilitate patients' access to care across various parts of the healthcare system, transforming it from a mere IT project.