In this BFM podcast Dr. Amjad Rabi, SWRC's visiting expert, discusses the upcoming Rakan KKM initiative introduced by Malaysia’s Ministry of Health. The conversation centers on the move to offer “premium economy” services - personalised care, choice of specialist and privacy - within public healthcare facilities. The government positions this as a pragmatic solution to increase the retention of healthcare professionals and generate new revenue streams, promising reinvestment into public services, especially for lower-income groups.
Critics, including health policy experts and associations, raise significant concerns:
Two-Tier System: Worry that Rakan KKM creates preferential access within public hospitals, favouring those who can pay.
Resource Diversion: Potential strain on already limited staff and resources, further disadvantaging regular public patients.
Privatisation in Disguise: The operational structure, including licensing under private healthcare laws, suggests a move towards privatisation despite official reassurances.
Listen to the whole conversation at: https://old.bfm.my/podcast/bigger-picture/health-and-living/is-rakan-kkm-privatisation-of-healthcare