By Danial Dzulkifly
SHAH ALAM, Nov 10 — In a significant move to bolster public health, the state government has earmarked RM59.7 million for public health programmes and initiatives next year, Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari announced today.
This includes a RM35 million allocation for the Iltizam Selangor Sihat (ISS) programme, benefiting 100,000 primary policyholders and about 150,000 registered family members.
Thanks to the increased funding, he said registered individuals will now receive up to RM10,000 in hospitalisation coverage annually at selected panel hospitals.
ISS policyholders are also entitled to basic healthcare and vaccinations, with RM500 in annual coverage for families and RM250 for individuals at any panel clinic within Selangor, Amirudin said when tabling the 2024 Selangor Budget today.
ISS’ existing benefits will also be maintained, including the RM5,000 critical illness and natural death incentives.
Similarly, the Bantuan Sihat Selangor programme, which provides up to RM5,000 in financial aid to lower-income groups for various health treatments like dialysis, surgeries, cancer treatments, transport allowances, and medical equipment, will continue next year with a RM5 million allocation.
The state’s heart treatment scheme will also see an expansion, offering up to RM50,000 in heart treatment financial assistance for eligible individuals. RM5 million will be allocated for this purpose.
He added another initiative to be maintained is Selangor Saring, which focuses on screening for non-communicable diseases like heart and kidney diseases, diabetes and hypertension, as well as screenings for breast, cervical, colorectal, and prostate cancers.
The state has allocated RM3.2 million to that end.
RM1.5 million will also be allocated under the ISS Penjawat Awam (ISSPA) programme, benefiting all state civil servants in Grade 44 and below.
ISSPA participants will enjoy basic health benefits at panel clinics and other protection benefits, including coverage for natural death, permanent disability, critical illness, and funeral expenses.
