Health Minister Dr Chua Soi Lek told Parliament today that a national healthcare insurance scheme is currently on the government's radar.

"Under the Ninth Malaysian Plan, we acknowledge the necessity to establish a mechanism covering healthcare costs as the government and the public are carrying the burden of rising healthcare costs," he said.

According to him, the government has studied various insurance scheme models from other countries as well in their effort to implement a solid healthcare insurance system here.

However, he noted that the government is aware that setting up such a system will have various implications but he did not elaborate on them.

"The implementation of this scheme must be conducted carefully and smoothly so that it can be accepted by all levels of society," he added.

Not finalised yet

Chua said he could not ascertain when the scheme could be implemented as the details have yet to be finalised.

Elaborating, the positive minister believed that the scheme will increase public access to expensive medicines besides promoting equality in society with equal access to healthcare.

"It will also provide flexibility as the public may opt for either private or government healthcare services," added Chua.

Finally, he assured that no sector of society will be denied the access to proper healthcare services and advised all citizens to apply to join the scheme once it is implemented.