Insurance Associations Forward Proposals For Healthcare, Insurance Sustainability

KUALA LUMPUR, March 7 (Bernama) -- The Life Insurance Association of Malaysia (LIAM), the Malaysian Takaful Association (MTA), and the Persatuan Insurans Am Malaysia (PIAM) have jointly proposed key recommendations to the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) to enhance affordability, transparency and sustainability in Malaysia’s healthcare and insurance sectors.

The three associations have highlighted in a statement today the  key proposals, including the implementation of diagnostic-related grouping pricing to improve transparency in healthcare service charges and billing.

“Aligning cost structures between healthcare providers, insurers, takaful operators (ITOs), and third-party administrators is essential in managing healthcare expenses effectively,” it said.

It also proposed working with Bank Negara Malaysia to develop a basic long-term sustainable insurance and takaful product while allowing ITOs to offer top-up schemes for those seeking additional coverage.

It suggestsed greater transparency by publishing the average costs of common procedures and treatments across private hospitals and annual medical cost inflation rates to help consumers become more financially aware.

“The establishment of an industry-wide claims database will improve claims analysis and help mitigate abuse.

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“Co-payment for medical and health insurance and takaful (MHIT) products is a key long-term solution to help policyholders and certificate holders manage costs by encouraging shared responsibility in healthcare expenses. Co-payment, especially co-insurance, can encourage more responsible consumption of health services,” it said.

The proposals also called for regulating pharmaceutical costs by collaborating with the Ministry of Health (MOH) to promote the use of generic drugs and regulate medication pricing.

“Reports indicate that pharmaceuticals account for a substantial portion of private hospital revenue, indicating the need for cost controls.

“We urge private hospitals to set up cost containment units and freeze increases during periods when insurers and takaful operators are required to cap premium hikes. This measure ensures cost containment efforts are equally distributed across the healthcare ecosystem,” it said.

The associations also proposed a tax exemption on group insurance from 8 per cent sales and service tax to encourage more employers to provide insurance and takaful protection for employees.

“Currently, approximately four million employees, including those from the B40 group, are covered through workplace schemes,” it said.

It further suggested appointing an independent consultant to conduct a detailed study to analyse and recommend actions for stakeholders to reduce claims inflation.

“This comprehensive study would provide data-driven insights and recommend effective actions to control rising claims costs.

“Lastly, we encourage and incentivise healthier lifestyles through no-claim bonuses, a reward system for individuals who maintain good health. This initiative aims to promote well-being, strengthen policyholder engagement, and loyalty, while reducing unnecessary medical claims,” it added.

-- BERNAMA