500 ambulances to be distributed nationwide soon - Dr Hilmi

The Health Ministry will issue 500 ambulance vans to hospitals nationwide this year.

Deputy Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Hilmi Yahaya said the 500 units would be distributed in phases to replace damaged ambulances.

"We have given 200 units nationwide but it was still insufficient, most ambulances are 10 to 15 years old and frequently used on the uneven roads of Sabah and Sarawak which contributed to extensive wear and tear," he said.

He was speaking to reporters Tuesday after officiating the fifth 'Bubur Lambuk' distribution programme by Maha Mas Medic Services Sdn Bhd (Mahamas Ambulance) at the Kuala Lumpur General Hospital.

Dr Hilmi said the ministry was also discussing a suggestion that ambulances should be separated from hospitals and clinics to improve the quality and efficiency of service.

"Ambulances need to be available at any strategic location that has a high accident rate to enable help to reach the place of incident quickly," he said.