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Malaysia Health Ministry to Review Air Doctor Service Contracts and Helicopter Use

The Health Ministry is undertaking a comprehensive review of its Air Doctor Service contracts, including the operational use of helicopters. The examination will also assess allowance payments provided to service personnel.

LSN Malaysia · 13 September 2026

Malaysia Health Ministry to Review Air Doctor Service Contracts and Helicopter Use

Malaysia's Health Ministry has initiated a broad reassessment of its Air Doctor Service (PDU) contracts and related helicopter operations, according to the health director-general. The review comes as part of efforts to ensure the efficient use of resources in the emergency medical evacuation programme. The ministry will examine the terms, conditions and cost-effectiveness of existing arrangements with service providers involved in the aerial medical transport scheme. Among the areas under scrutiny is the RM30 allowance paid to PDU personnel for each operational flight. The director-general indicated this entitlement will be evaluated as part of the overall contract review process. The Air Doctor Service plays a critical role in Malaysia's healthcare system, providing rapid medical evacuation and transport for patients in remote areas and during emergency situations. The ministry's review is expected to assess whether current payment structures and operational frameworks remain appropriate and sustainable.