THE Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) is in full support of the health director-general’s statement on November 8 that Covid-19 tests by the private sector can be carried out only at private clinics, ambulatory care centres or private hospitals.
The statement is timely as Covid-19 screenings have become commercialised, and there is widespread advertising for the service.
Organisations advertising such screening services must be registered with health authorities. Their advertisements must also be approved by health authorities.
As for on-site screening, they can be performed only by clinics registered with the Health Ministry.
All health facilities performing swab tests are also required to self-declare that the tests will be conducted in full compliance with ministry guidelines.
It is also important that the public exercises due diligence by checking if a Covid-19 screening provider is trained to perform swab tests and is a registered healthcare professional with the Malaysian Medical Council.
Swab tests can be performed only by a trained healthcare professional, or consumers may be at risk of injuries or health issues.
Covid-19 screening (RTK antigen or RT-PCR swab tests) must be performed under strict infectious disease control in full compliance with ministry guidelines. A proper sample must be obtained for these tests to ensure an accurate result. If done incorrectly, there is a possibility of a false negative result.
MMA is deeply concerned that the lack of strict enforcement could open the door to widespread illegal Covid-19 screening services due to the high demand. If unchecked, it can put people’s health at risk.
Last month, a 23-year-old model died from an allegedly botched liposuction procedure. It was reported that the beauty salon that performed the procedure did not have a licence to carry out the said procedure.
Similar incidents must be prevented. We urge the authorities to step up enforcement to check on the legality of those providing Covid-19 screening services. – The Vibes, November 13, 2020
Prof Datuk Dr Subramaniam Muniandy is president of the Malaysian Medical Association
