05-07-2025
Health Ministry in final phase of tackling long hospital wait times
PUTRAJAYA: The Health Ministry is in the final stages of resolving the issue of long waiting times for patients seeking treatment at government hospitals, particularly those who wait more than six hours.
Its minister, Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, said the ministry is thoroughly reviewing the matter through engagement sessions with relevant ministries and agencies before making any official announcement.
However, he noted that the issue of long waiting times has been addressed since last year, including during his current tenure.
"Please give us a little more time, as we are now in the final phase," he told reporters after officiating the national level Safe Food Expo (eMas) at a shopping complex here today.
The eMas Expo, held in conjunction with World Food Safety Day, aims to protect consumer health while supporting smooth international food trade.
Meanwhile, when asked whether the long waiting times at government hospitals were due to a shortage of medical personnel, including doctors and nurses opting to work in the private sector, Dzulkefly declined to elaborate.
"I do not wish to comment further, as this matter has been explained to the media repeatedly… please wait for an official statement from the ministry," he said.
