The federal government has allocated about RM1 billion for upgrading of health services in hospitals and clinics in Penang this year.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr S. Subramaniam said the large allocation was equivalent to the annual budget of the Penang state government.
"Penang Hospital (HPP) alone received an allocation of RM400 million," he told reporters after making an official visit to HPP in George Town yesterday.
The ministry was also mulling the possibility of all hospitals in Penang sharing the existing facilities.
Dr Subramaniam said this way, the congestion problem faced by hospitals could be addressed as patients would not converge on only one hospital.
The ministry also plans to relocate the outpatient department to a building near Jalan Sepoy Lines to overcome congestion as HPP serves about 800 outpatients daily.
The relocation decision is still not finalised and if the new location is suitable for facilities and outpatient treatment, the relocation is expected to be implemented by year end.
Dr Subramaniam also expressed sadness because the public did not appreciate the health services provided by the federal government especially when the charges were much lower.
"Since health services are provided for free, we are not respected. I hope the people realise that all the medical expenses are borne by the government."
Source: The Malaysian Insider
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