LIFESTYLE MEDICINE KEY TO VALUE-BASED HEALTHCARE SUCCESS – MSLM

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 18 (Bernama) -- Adopting lifestyle medicine, a medical approach that uses evidence-based therapeutic interventions to prevent, treat and even reverse chronic diseases by addressing their root causes, is essential for the success of Malaysia’s Value-Based Healthcare (VBHC) system, says the Malaysian Society of Lifestyle Medicine (MSLM).

MSLM president Dr Siva Poobalasingam said that lifestyle medicine is increasingly recognised as a transformative approach to managing healthcare challenges in Malaysia, particularly as the nation transitions to a VBHC system that prioritises patient outcomes, sustainability and long-term cost savings.

“This approach aligns with Malaysia’s move towards a sustainable, patient-centred healthcare model,” he said in a statement to Bernama.

Dr Siva outlined the six core pillars of lifestyle medicine: adopting predominantly plant-based diets, engaging in regular physical activity, effectively managing stress, maintaining sufficient sleep, avoiding risky substances and fostering social connections.

These pillars, he explained, are effective tools in shifting diabetes management from mere treatment to prevention and even remission.

He was responding to remarks by Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni, who, at the recent 4th Malaysian Lifestyle Medicine Conference, emphasised the need to adopt VBHC to prioritise patient outcomes over the traditional fee-for-service model.

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“VBHC focuses on value over volume, ensuring healthcare spending translates to measurable health benefits. This aligns perfectly with lifestyle medicine’s emphasis on prevention, quality and accountability,” said Dr Siva.

He also highlighted the success of the Lifestyle Medicine for Diabetes Remission pilot programme at Seremban 2 Health Clinic, which integrates VBHC and lifestyle medicine principles.

The initiative has demonstrated promising results in reducing diabetes prevalence and severity, prompting calls for its expansion nationwide.

On a related note, Dr Siva announced MSLM’s collaboration with the Benson-Henry Institute for Mind Body Medicine, affiliated with Harvard Medical School, to introduce the Stress Management and Resiliency Training (SMART) programme in Malaysia—the first rollout of its kind outside the United States.

“This programme equips participants with proven stress management and resilience-building techniques, advancing the field of mind-body medicine in Malaysia,” he said.

-- BERNAMA