KOTA KINABALU – Sabah’s healthcare system is not on the verge of collapse, said the Malaysian Medical Association, despite the state’s surge in Covid-19 infections.
“I don’t think it will collapse even though there has been an increase in the number of cases,” said the group’s president, Datuk Dr M. Subramaniam.
“Yes, the situation is serious, but I was made to understand that there are also many non-governmental organisations supporting the government’s efforts.”
He said the state administration has the option of roping in private general practitioners (GPs) to assist in handling non-communicable disease (NCD) patients.
“These NCD patients can be sent to GPs, who will help lighten the load on government doctors battling Covid-19.”
Universiti Malaysia Sabah epidemiologist Associate Prof Syed Sharizman agreed that the state is able to cope with the spike in infections.
“Though I don’t have the actual figures... but with over 26,000 healthcare workers, as well as additional manpower from Kuala Lumpur and Sarawak, it should not be a problem. I think Sabah can cope.”
Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun, the state’s spokesman on coronavirus matters, has given an assurance that there are enough beds and protective gear, with more supplies to be flown in by the air force should a request be put in.
A total of 26,379 staff from the state Health Department are handling coronavirus cases, assisted by 255 healthcare officers from the peninsula and Sarawak.
Sabah today recorded 643 new Covid-19 infections, taking its total active cases to 5,290. – The Vibes, October 19, 2020
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