RM1 bilion untuk pendigitalan kesihatan perlu disokong infrastruktur, keselamatan siber

Yesterday, Malaysia's Health Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced a RM1 billion allocation towards digital health sector enhancement, with funds managed through the Communications and Multimedia Commission Malaysia (SKMM). The funds will be used to improve Electronic Medical Records (EMR) implementation, increase internet connectivity at 150 hospitals and over 2,000 public health clinics.

The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) emphasized the critical need for adequate infrastructure, cybersecurity measures, and future scalability to ensure smooth operation of the EMR system. MMA President Dr Thirunavukarasu Rajoo stressed that the investment should not be viewed merely as a technology project, but rather as a means to connect healthcare services around patients.

He also highlighted the importance of involving doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers in the change management process, providing them with appropriate training. The MMA commended the government's effort, noting that at least 15 million Malaysians now have health records accessible via MySejahtera, as part of the "One Individual, One Record" initiative.

The MMA president underscored the significance of clear timelines, measurable goals, efficient resource utilization, and accountability for the allocated funds. He reiterated that this is not merely an IT project, but rather a matter of connecting healthcare services around patients.