THE Malaysian Medical Council (MMC) and the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA) should monitor and audit online healthcare services to safeguard patient’s welfare.
“While online health consultations are an important adjunct during the pandemic, it must be accompanied with the highest standards of data privacy, medical and ethical considerations.
“Doctors who offer online services must take into account of the limits of online consultations and advise patients needing face to face consultations when cases warrant proper physical examinations, or when communication barriers exist online,” said Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) president Datuk Dr M Subramaniam in a statement.
Elaborating on the issue, Subramaniam reminded online healthcare providers that the MMC practices strict ethical codes that every registered doctor must comply with.
He added that the purpose of these codes is for all doctors to maintain the highest standard of professionalism and integrity to protect patient’s welfare.
“MMC as the guardian of the patients and profession should take these issues seriously by guiding the doctors and safeguarding patients, or risk being seen as a toothless tiger,” Subramaniam opined.
Standards above convenience
On healthcare providers, the veteran doctor reminded the former to never compromise on ethical considerations.
“While we agree that online health services are integral to provision of healthcare and while its full potential is yet to be realised, it must do no harm to patients and the public.
Subramaniam also reminded them that the sale of medicine is governed by the Poison Act 1952. Any deviation from the Act may threaten patient’s safety and is subject to legal action.
He added healthcare providers must take a comprehensive approach on every consultation so that an accurate diagnosis, with the appropriate management, is instituted for the patient.
“The supply of medications for chronic non communicable diseases (NCD) such as hypertension, diabetes or hypercholesterolaemia must be accompanied with proper counselling and tests.
“Reviews by medical professionals at regular intervals of three to six months are important to note the efficacy of the treatment. Medications should not be repeated without regular follow ups.
“In essence, convenience must never compromise the safety and health outcomes of patients,” Subramaniam remarked. – Dec 26, 2020.
