Kuala Lumpur , March 21 (Bernama) :
The health tourism sector has generated RM570.5 million in revenue last year, following improved customer experience, proactive alliances and niche marketing.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai said, “We have seen a more than 20 percent growth in terms of health tourism since the past three years.”
Health tourism has been outlined as one of the entry point projects under the National Key Economic Areas (NKEA), and the Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council was established to drive the promotion.
Speaking at the launching of the Healthcare in Asia 2013 conference, here, today, Liow said as for the national budget allocation, the ministry hoped to push for at least 10 percent to be allocated for the health sector compared to the current eight percent.
However there would be no cut back in budget allocation for the health sector, he added.
On another aspect, Liow also assured that the government would always retain a vested interest to intervene decisively in the health system despite the growing private-driven initiatives in healthcare.
“This is to maintain four broad objectives, that is, universal coverage, equity in health delivery and financing, ensuring financial protection and addressing market failures in health,” he added.
source: http://www.mysinchew.com / Home> News / March 21st, 2013
