BANGI - Malaysia has 623 registered psychiatrists, which is a long way to go to meet current needs, said Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.
He said the figure includes 385 specialists in government hospitals, 102 in public and private hospitals, 26 in private universities and eight in Armed Forces hospitals.
"Therefore, he said family medicine specialists (FMS) at health clinics providing mental health services can play an early role in assisting individuals facing psychiatric issues.
"...and I want FMS (at health clinics) to take on the crucial role (to treat patients) because FMS are clinicians. They are there to treat patients.
"I emphasise that it's not just psychiatrists or counsellors. We need to look at the healthcare team itself, where the role of FMS is crucial. They are trained to handle patients, and mental health is part of their expertise. We also expect them to play a role at health clinics," he said, adding that 774 FMS are currently working in health clinics.
He spoke to reporters after opening the Regional Counselling Convention (RISE) 2024, themed 'Bridging Wellbeing and Work' here today, which was also attended by the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) chairman Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali.
On Dec 16, 2021, the Health Ministry said that it aimed to achieve the ratio of one psychiatrist for every 50,000 people nationwide by 2025, which would require a total of 720 psychiatrists. - BERNAMA