Healthcare and Health Insurance in Malaysia

Summary: The quality of medical care in Malaysia is generally considered to be good, with many hospitals and clinics offering modern medical facilities and treatments. However, the quality of care may not be as high as in the United States. Emergency services in Malaysia are generally reliable and efficient, with ambulances available to respond to medical emergencies. To call for an ambulance, you can dial 999 or 112 from any phone.

How are healthcare services Malaysia?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Malaysia, they replied:

"Excellent clinics with Providers trained internationally, many with US Board certification -- especially true at private hospitals and clinics," wrote an expat living in Georgetown.

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What are medical services in Malaysia like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Malaysia, they replied:

"Medical services in Malaysia are generally of high quality and have advanced levels of technology. Malaysia has a well-developed health care system consisting of both public and private health facilities, providing accessible healthcare to citizens and visitors alike. Many hospitals in Malaysia provide specialist medical services such as cancer, orthopedic, and cardiology treatments. Highly trained professionals are available to provide comprehensive medical care. Moreover, the Malaysian government has made health services more accessible by introducing insurance plans and subsidies for medical treatments, making it relatively inexpensive for Malaysians to receive quality care," mentioned one expat in Malaysia.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Malaysia?

"Healthcare and health insurance can be expensive in Malaysia, depending on the type of plan or coverage that is purchased. Individuals are required to pay fees for different types of doctor consultations, procedures, and treatments. Additionally, health insurance policies can come with premiums and deductibles, which can add to the overall cost. However, there are affordable options for those seeking coverage, such as low cost catastrophic plans, which can help minimize the cost of healthcare and health insurance," said one expat.

"Local health insurance is available to people under age 60. We have personal health insurance with a company specialising in international benefits. We pay for the procedures locally and submit electronic claims forms that are processed and pay according to US. standards. We chose this provider based on market research and an organization with which we are affiliated," remarked one expat in Georgetown, Penang Island, Malaysia.

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What are emergency services like in Malaysia?

When we asked about emergency services, members in Malaysia wrote:

"Emergency services respond quickly. Public and private hospitals are within 5 miles, clinics within a few blocks. Quality of care is on par with global high-level expertise. Hospitals are both public and private. Call for an ambulance with emergency call numbers," commented one expat who moved to Georgetown.

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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"Expats can go to local clinics and to hospitals. Typical treatment includes sprained ligaments, skin reactions, respiratory problems. Severe problems may evacuate to Kuala Lumpur. I would personally not return to US for medical OR dental care. Level of competence here for specialist treatment is trained by and participates in U.S. standards for Board Certification. Cost of treatment here is SUBSTANTIALLY LOWER than U.S," commented one expat who moved to Georgetown, Penang Island, Malaysia.

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Are common prescription medications available in Malaysia?

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Malaysia. Pharmacies in Malaysia offer a variety of prescription drugs, including antifungal medications, antibiotics, anticonvulsant drugs, anti-inflammatory medications, antiviral drugs, and cardio-selective drugs. Common generic medications, such as ibuprofen, paracetamol, loratadine, and omeprazole, are also widely available. There are some drugs, such as certain controlled drugs and some medical devices, which cannot be sold without a prescription due to Malaysian law," remarked one expat living in Malaysia.

"Prescriptions are available through clinics, hospitals and pharmacies. Cost are low compared to U.S. We needed an antihistamine similar to U.S. prescription formula. We took it to a local pharmacy that said they didn't carry that brand, but compared ingredients and provide a local version--no prescription needed for that one," said one expat living in Georgetown, Penang Island, Malaysia.

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Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Malaysia?

"Medical facilities and medical care in Malaysia are of a high quality. The medical system is well established and the equipment is up-to-date. Doctors and other medical professionals in Malaysia receive quality medical training, meaning they provide excellent care to their patients. Healthcare is easily accessible, affordable and efficient even in the rural areas. Besides modern medical treatments and procedures, traditional remedies are also available at many facilities, combining the best of both worlds," said one expat.

"There are private hospitals, which work better for foreigners. Quite a few around Kuala Lumpur," remarked one expat in Kuala Lumpur.

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As a foreigner living in Malaysia, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

"Yes, foreigners living in Malaysia have access to public healthcare. The quality of care offered in Malaysian public healthcare facilities can vary greatly, although hospitals are generally well-equipped and feature competent staffs. The cost for healthcare services for foreigners can be expensive, depending on their insurance coverage, though some facilities offer discounted rates for those who cannot afford the full costs. Treatment is generally slower than in the private healthcare sector, though wait times are usually reasonable. Additionally, certain services and treatments may be unavailable in some public healthcare facilities," commented one expat living in Malaysia.

"No need to enroll in public health system--show up at a hospital or clinic and ask for treatment. There are public hospitals, but private (more costly) respond faster with higher levels of service. Quality of health care is very good," wrote one expat.

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What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?

We asked expats in Malaysia if they have access to public healthcare in Malaysia. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...

"In Malaysia, the local healthcare system has been stressed due to the influx of Covid-19 cases but they have held up relatively well. The government has implemented comprehensive testing strategies and contact tracing, and allocated considerable resources to ensure the best possible care for patients. Many local hospitals have initiated protective measures to reduce the risk of coronavirus transmission. They are also offering telemedicine appointments, allowing people to receive medical advice from the safety of their own homes.The government has also established a range of prompt and efficient coordination systems between victim support centers and hospitals. All of these efforts have helped to ensure that care is efficient, quick and of a high quality," wrote an expat living in Malaysia.

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What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Malaysia?

We asked expat moms who gave birth in Malaysia about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:

"If you approach your doctor with your birth plan and know what kind of experience you want, they will try to accommodate it. Also, find out the OB's c-section rate and episiotomy rate. Malaysia is a very c-section prone country, but there are doctors who will be happy to have someone who is trying to deliver vaginally and non-medicated. Do come to KL, though. Not sure what the medical service is like elsewhere," said one expat in Kuala Lumpur.

"Go home, or find that doc in Kuala Lumpur. Singapore might also be a good option. Question your doctor about practices - caesarians and episiotomies and laying in bed while in labour and flat on your back to deliver (if you even get to the pushing part!) are the norm. Read up on breastfeeding, know what a proper latch looks like and be familiar with any issues you might encounter because you will get NO help unless it involves handing you a bottle of formula. Do not take any drugs you are given until you can get someone with an internet connection to look them up and check their safety, especially if you nurse. In sum, be as informed as you possibly can and ask questions every step of the way," remarked one in Melaka.

Are healthcare services good in Malaysia?

We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Malaysia. They wrote:

"We have not used medical care here, but understand through other expats who have that they have been quite satisfied. There are an abundance of healthcare facilities on Penang," explained one expat living in Penang.

15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Malaysia

How are healthcare services Malaysia?

What are medical services in Malaysia like?

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Malaysia?

What are emergency services like in Malaysia?

Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

Are common prescription medications available in Malaysia?

Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Malaysia?

As a foreigner living in Malaysia, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?

What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Malaysia?

Are healthcare services good in Malaysia?

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