S'gor launches healthcare scheme for B40 group (Updated)

GOMBAK: Selangor has launched a healthcare subsidisation scheme called "Peduli Sihat" which is estimated to benefit one million residents in the bottom 40% income group (B40).
Selangor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali said the scheme applies to about 250,000 households in the state which earn below RM3,000 a month and will cost his government about RM125 million annually.
"This is another programme initiated by the Selangor government to take care of the people, especially those from the B40 group.
"This basic healthcare services is only available in Selangor, if we want the state to be prosperous, economically active and productive, there must be participation by healthy citizens," Azmin said during the launch of the scheme held at Bangunan Sultan Sulaiman here.
Azmin also brushed off claims that the scheme was Pakistan Harapan's (PH) "bait" in garnering public support for the upcoming general election.
"I don't even know the date for the upcoming general election, how is this (scheme) a bait for the election?
"Since we took over in 2008, we feel that Selangor is getting stronger economically and it should be translated into schemes and programmes that would benefit the people," Azmin said.
The "Peduli Sihat" scheme is managed by Selgate Corporation as a third-party healthcare administrator and will fund primary care treatment for each qualifying family for an amount of RM500 per year.
The scheme's beneficiaries will be able to receive treatment in 1,000 clinics registered in Selangor and the Klang Valley.
Those registered will receive a medical card and the scheme is also extended to the beneficiary's spouse and children below 21 years old.
The scheme is also applicable to those who have resided in Selangor for more than 10 years and registration can be done in any state assemblyman's office, local council and district offices, and at clinics registered under the scheme.