AFP file photo for illustration purposes.
PUTRAJAYA: The Ministry of Health has established a virtual health advisory portal to address the growing number of public queries on the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (Covid-19) and to correct misinformation.
The medium, which was done in partnership with DoctorOnCall, is the first of its kind initiated by a government in the region.
Malaysians can access this for free from anywhere, seven days a week, between 8.30am to 5pm via www.moh.gov.my or www.doctoroncall.com.my/coronavirus.
On this portal, the public will be able to search for verified and credible written articles about the disease; take a self-assessment test to understand their risks, and should they wish to clarify their symptoms, speak to a Ministry of Health doctor via chat, phone or video call.
This free virtual health advisory platform allows a doctor to understand callers’ concerns, assess the symptoms, and advice on the necessary steps to be taken.
Should a patient be identified with a high risk of infection, the necessary protocol within the Ministry of Health Crisis Preparedness And Response Centre (CPRC) will be activated by the doctor, all this achieved seamlessly.
DoctorOnCall, established in 2017, is Malaysia’s first and largest digital health platform. On its existing platform, it offers telehealth consultation, online pharmacy, medication delivery, credible health-related articles, doctors and specialist booking.
With its extensive network of over 1,500 specialists in private hospitals and more than 100 General Practice (GP) doctors throughout Malaysia, patients are also able to order and receive prescription drugs safely and promptly.