MMA calls on BNM to safeguard patients as doctors lose cashless access

The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) has requested clarification from Bank Negara Malaysia regarding safeguards for patients amid growing concerns over cashless payment restrictions in the private healthcare sector.

The call comes after parliamentary disclosures revealed that approximately 190 specialist doctors in Malaysia's private sector have reportedly lost their cashless facilities with insurance companies. This disruption threatens to impact patient access to medical services and raises questions about the regulatory oversight of such arrangements.

Cashless facilities enable patients with insurance coverage to receive treatment without immediate out-of-pocket payments, with insurers settling bills directly with healthcare providers. The sudden loss of these arrangements by a significant number of specialists suggests potential disputes or policy changes between medical practitioners and insurance companies.

The MMA's intervention underscores the need for clearer regulatory guidelines governing the relationship between private doctors, insurers, and patients. The association has emphasised that any restrictions on cashless access should not compromise patient welfare or create undue financial hardship.

Bank Negara Malaysia, as the nation's financial regulator, is expected to provide guidance on how such disputes should be managed to protect consumers while maintaining a functioning healthcare ecosystem in the private sector.