KUALA LUMPUR, September 2 – A recent write-up by “Concern Pensioners” circulating on social media and WhatsApp platforms has raised concerns for Institut Jantung Negara (IJN) as it contains inaccuracies and unjustified accusations towards the organization. In response, we would like to address some misconceptions and provide clarification regarding Institut Jantung Negara (IJN) and its operations. First and foremost, it is crucial to clarify that IJN has never been privatised.
It has been corporatised since its establishment. As a corporatised entity, IJN remains fully owned by the government under the Minister of Finance Incorporated. The centre operates privately under the Malaysian Private Healthcare Facilities and Services Act 1998, which falls under the purview of the Ministry of Health. It is important to emphasize that IJN’s primary mission is to provide exceptional medical services to all Malaysians, including government employees, retirees, citizens from various sectors, and patients from neighboring countries.
Approximately 84.7% of IJN’s workload consists of patients from the government sector, including employees, pensioners, and their dependents. Additionally, 14.9% of patients are privately paying (with insurance coverage or cash), and 0.4% are foreign patients. This information is readily available in our performance reports, accessible on our website. To clarify the referral process for government employees, pensioners, and their dependents seeking treatment at IJN, the Public Service Department (JPA) requires a referral from government/private hospitals or clinics.
The referral should be issued by a Physician, Cardiologist, or Emergency Physician. Patients with government Group Life Insurance (GL) may refer to the JPA circular Appendix SR. 2.1.1 (G), provided in the official MyPPSM portal, or consult their human resources department for the necessary steps. It is essential to note that each government agency has its own terms and requirements for employee eligibility and coverage when seeking treatment at IJN.
Moreover, based on the “Surat Pekeliling Ketua Pengarah Kesihatan Bil 12/2002 – Garis Panduan Rawatan Susulan di IJN bagi Pesakit Tanggungan Kerajaan” guideline, patients are expected to be discharged back to the referring hospital 12 months after undergoing a procedure/surgery. This is done when the patient requires continuous follow-up treatment and management. IJN strictly adheres to this guideline regulated by the Ministry of Health. IJN remains committed to providing excellent healthcare to government employees and retirees.
Our goal is to offer the highest level of medical care to all our patients, regardless of their backgrounds. We deeply value the unwavering support of government employees and retirees who have been with us since the early days of IJN. Their contributions have been instrumental in shaping IJN into the leading heart centre it is today. Our dedication to the well-being and health of all Malaysians continues to be unwavering and resolute.
