Govt misses ambulance response target as only 34.1% of critical cases reached within 15 minutes

The government's ambulance response time target was missed in 2025, with only 34.1% of critical cases receiving an ambulance within 15 minutes, according to the latest performance analysis. This falls 15.9 percentage points short of the Health Ministry's key performance indicator (KPI) target of 50%. Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, the Health Minister, explained that Priority 1 cases encompass life-threatening emergencies like severe trauma and other urgent conditions.

The performance review aims to pinpoint areas for improvement and boost the efficiency of emergency response systems. In response to queries from Datuk Seri Jalaluddin Alias, the Minister highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance coordination under the Malaysian Emergency Response Services (MERS) 999 system and expand ambulance capacity, especially in Jelebu, Negeri Sembilan.

Currently, five ambulances operate in the area, with two additional units set to be deployed in 2027. Additionally, the Ministry is addressing disparities in access to medical services between urban and rural hospitals by implementing cluster hospital arrangements and primary healthcare networks. These initiatives facilitate resource sharing among hospitals, including medical equipment and diagnostic facilities, under the guidance of lead institutions.

The strategy also aims to broaden specialist services to rural health clinics and hospitals lacking resident specialists through integrated cluster hospital arrangements. This approach supports the management of chronic diseases, from early screening to primary care services, according to Dr Dzulkefly.