KUALA LUMPUR: Private hospitals will no longer serve as vaccination centres (PPV) or participate in mega PPV by the end of this month following the latest directive from the Covid-19 Immunisation Task Force (CITF), says the Association of Private Hospitals Malaysia (APHM).

       Its president Datuk Dr Kuljit Singh said that private hospitals will now focus outside Klang Valley, both in terms of enhancing vaccination and decanting patients into private hospitals.

       “We in private hospitals will abide with all policies and directions given by the government in the process of vaccination and managing this pandemic.

       “At any time, we would give our support as requested by the government and will not question or dispute the arrangements made by all government stakeholders,” he said.

       On Sunday, CITF said that the involvement of private general practitioners (GPs) in administering Covid-19 vaccines is based on current needs to ensure continuity of the National Covid-19 Immunisation Programme.

       CITF explained that the operation to boost vaccination capacity that sought to control the Covid-19 outbreak in relevant areas was carried out from July 26 to Aug 1, which had led to its decision to reduce the number of PPVs in the Klang Valley, including the participation of private GPs.

       According to Dr Kuljit, private hospitals had successfully accepted close to 2,000 decanted patients in the Greater Klang Valley region.

       “APHM wishes to express our sincere gratitude to the Health Ministry with the organisation done by ProtectHealth Sdn Bhd and the Science, Innovative and Technology Ministry for this opportunity to dispense close to 1.5 million complete doses to citizens and non-citizens of Malaysia,” he said.

       Dr Kuljit said selected private hospitals would conduct private vaccinations for those who require them based on their request, and will also be prepared to administer booster shots if necessary in the future.

       “Our plea is to have a wider range of vaccine types made available to paying patients, which would further strengthen herd immunity.

       “This will decrease the hesitancy when the public is given a choice (on) the type of vaccine.

       “APHM will continue to work closely with all the new Cabinet ministers in fighting this pandemic as soon as possible.

       “The importance of getting the economy back to its feet will be significant to the business of private hospitals.

       “In view of this, collaborative efforts between private hospitals and public healthcare will be continuously strengthened with the new national leadership,” he said.