STARTING May, outpatients in Johor will be able to pick up medicines prescribed by government clinics and hospitals at selected shopping malls.

State Education, Health and Human Resource Committee chairman Aminolhuda Hassan said several malls in Johor Baru, Muar and Batu Pahat are being considered for the initiative.

“This is one way to reduce congestion at government hospitals and clinics, and slash the waiting time for patients,” he told reporters in the state capital yesterday.

Present was state health director Dr Aman Rabu.

Aminolhuda said the Johor Health Department is discussing with several malls, and will soon present the “Locker For You” proposal to the state government for implementation.

“This is for ‘repeat cases’, those who already have prescriptions, not first-timers. We expect the initiative to be implemented after Hari Raya Aidilfitri, around May.”

Aminolhuda, who was previously state Education, Human Resources, Science and Technology Committee chairman, added that he plans to introduce a “5G” programme for Johor folk.

“The ‘5G’ stands for ‘gula’ (sugar), ‘garam’ (salt), ‘ginjal’ (kidney), ‘gigi’ (teeth) and ‘gemuk’ (overweight). The programme will be about avoiding or reducing sugar and salt intake, taking care of your kidneys and teeth, and not getting fat.” – Bernama, January 14, 2020.