THE Health Ministry (MOH) is discussing with the Public Service Department how to absorb contract medical personnel to the permanent staff without pensions, Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa said.

Zaliha added this is to deal with workloads that exceed the capacity of available resources, as well as to reduce the impact on the pension scheme, which was RM29.1 billion in 2021.

“We are aware of the burden with the pension scheme, which in 2011 was worth RM3.1 billion and increased to RM29.1 billion in 2021.

“The way out is to absorb contract workers on a permanent basis, but without a pension.

“However, they enjoy the same benefits as other permanent workers, like eligibility for a housing loan,” she said in the Dewan Negara today, in response to a question from Jefridin Atan.

Meanwhile, Zaliha said an increase in cases of non-communicable diseases cases is causing overcrowding in health facilities.

“To reduce overcrowding in hospitals, we have implemented a pilot project led by the special task force on public sector reform, which was also established under the supervision of the chief secretary to the government.

“The MOH is also intensifying its digitalisation efforts to reduce workloads, in addition to scheduling practices that can help ensure members have sufficient rest time between shifts, including giving leave to health workers,” she said. – Bernama, March 30, 2023.