The Malaysian Medical Welfare Fund and the Malaysian Association of Medical Social Workers (MASW) play crucial roles in supporting healthcare access for disadvantaged populations in Malaysia.
Malaysian Medical Welfare Fund
The Malaysian Medical Welfare Fund, also known as the Tabung Kebajikan Perubatan, was established to assist poor and needy patients, particularly those from the B40 socioeconomic group. This fund is administered by the Ministry of Health Malaysia and aims to alleviate financial burdens associated with medical treatment. It provides financial assistance for various medical costs, including hospital treatments and rehabilitation equipment. The fund has been operational since 2005, with significant allocations made annually to support eligible patients[1][7].
Key Features:
- Target Group: Primarily assists B40 groups who struggle to afford medical care.
- Funding: The Ministry of Finance allocates approximately RM40 million annually to this fund.
- Impact: Since its inception, over 64,000 patients have benefited from this initiative, highlighting its importance in the Malaysian healthcare system[1].
Malaysian Association of Medical Social Workers (MASW)
Founded in 1973, MASW is a professional body that represents medical social workers in Malaysia. It emerged from earlier organizations aimed at enhancing the profession’s recognition and standards. MASW focuses on promoting social work practices within healthcare settings and advocates for the welfare of vulnerable populations[2][6].
Objectives:
- Advocacy: MASW works to improve the working conditions and professional recognition of medical social workers.
- Support Services: It provides resources and networking opportunities for its members, facilitating collaboration with governmental and non-governmental organizations.
- Professional Development: The association emphasizes continuous education and training for social workers to enhance their skills and effectiveness in addressing social issues[2][6].
Historical Context:
The roots of medical social work in Malaysia can be traced back to the establishment of the Malayan Association of Almoners in 1955, which later evolved into MASW. This evolution reflects the growing recognition of social work’s role in healthcare, particularly in addressing the psychosocial needs of patients[6].
Both the Malaysian Medical Welfare Fund and MASW are integral to ensuring that vulnerable populations receive necessary medical care and support, thereby contributing significantly to Malaysia’s healthcare landscape.
Citations:
[1] http://psasir.upm.edu.my/id/eprint/99672/1/4.%20ICSSIET%202023%20PROCEEDINGS%20BOOK-328-343.pdf
[2] https://www.masw.org.my/about-masw
[3] https://mountmiriam.com/welfarefund/
[4] https://hkl.moh.gov.my/index.php/en/about-us/department/surgical/medical-social-work
[5] https://jknselangor.moh.gov.my/hselayang/index.php/en/service/clinic-support-service/medical-social-department/134-financial-assistance
[6] https://www.hati.my/malaysian-association-of-social-workers-masw/
[7] https://www.hati.my/malaysian-medical-welfare-fund-and-association-of-medical-social-workers/
[8] https://www.facebook.com/mymasw/
Malaysian Medical Welfare Fund and Association of Medical Social Workers
Ms Hasnah SulaimanContact Person | |
[email protected]Email | |
+603 2905 560Phone Number | |
+603 2943 942Fax Number | |
c/o Jabatan Kebajikan Perubatan Hospital Kuala Lumpur 50586 Kuala LumpurAddress |