Call to normalise and dignify mental health treatments in Malaysia
SHAH ALAM - The government should collaborate with private healthcare facilities to establish new healthcare units, especially in areas facing mental health challenges.
Taylor’s University Impact Lab on Mental Health and Wellbeing Director Professor Datuk Dr Andrew Mohanraj said that private hospitals often hesitate to establish new facilities due to concerns over sustainability and revenue sources.
A significant concern is the absence of psychiatric units in many new multi-speciality hospitals.
“Despite observing regions with multiple multi-speciality hospitals in development, none seem to include psychiatric units.
"Private hospitals should recognise their broader societal role, which extends beyond mere profit-making.
"They should aim for comprehensive healthcare, including mental health services," he told Sinar Daily.
Dr Andrew believes that private institutions can alleviate the strain on government facilities, allowing them to cater to individuals genuinely unable to afford private care.
On the topic of insurance, he noted the glaring lack of coverage for mental health treatments.
“While a few insurance companies have recently started covering mental health, it remains insufficient.
"To succeed, private mental health facilities must become part of the medical tourism framework,” he said.
Although Malaysia is renowned for its high-standard, competitively priced medical care, it lags in certain treatments.
Another significant challenge is the misconception surrounding mental health.
Dr Andrew highlighted that foreign patients seeking psychiatric treatment face visa denial due to prevailing biases that associate mental health conditions with dangerous behavior.
“The focus should now shift towards normalising and dignifying mental health treatments.
"It's crucial for both the government and private sectors to promote the establishment of psychiatric units, not just clinics.
"While clinics are plentiful, they only offer consultations and medication.
"For comprehensive care, especially for foreigners or self-paying locals, there are scarcely any facilities available," he added.
