KUCHING: The Sarawak government has approved RM10 million for the implementation of a hospital link technology to improve the efficiency and accessibility of patient medical records across the state.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the funds, approved last week, will be used to develop a digital application that allows hospitals in Sarawak to seamlessly share patient records.
“This digital technology will connect all hospitals in Sarawak where patient records can be accessed by hospitals across the state.
“For example, if a patient is treated at the Sarawak General Hospital in Kuching, their records will be immediately accessible by hospitals in other locations like Bintulu or Sibu through digital information transactions,” he said when officiating at the state banquet in conjunction with the 64th National AGM of the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) Sarawak Branch at Sheraton Hotel last night (Sept 5).
Abang Johari also said the digital platform will replace the current manual or phone-based system which is prone to errors.
“Of course, you must have consent from the patient to share the record. Unlike now, it is either by phone or manual.
“Sometimes, the record is wrong, and that could lead to incorrect treatment. So, that is why the record is very important,” he added.
In addition, Abang Johari announced the approval of RM1 million funds for the training of staff to manage and operate specialised neuro equipment to treat stroke and cardiac patients.
“I recently visited a friend in the Sarawak General Hospital, and the neurologist informed me that while they have the necessary equipment, they lack the trained personnel to operate it.
“It’s a specialised field, and the training required is significant, costing RM300,000 per trainee,” he said.
Abang Johari also reaffirmed the Sarawak government’s commitment to enhance healthcare services at the Normah Medical Specialist Centre, which is owned by the state government.
He noted that while the hospital has the space and the state government has plans to procure neuro equipment, there is a need for resident neurologists, as current policies do not allow for visiting specialists.
“We hope to work with Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni to resolve this and allow specialists to come to Normah.
“In the meantime, we will continue to send our doctors for specialised training to ensure we can treat neuro-related issues effectively,” he added.
