KUALA LUMPUR, Oct. 12 -- Health Minister Datuk Seri Dzulkefly Ahmad has dismissed claims that the delay in implementing the Diagnosis-Related Group (DRG) system was due to lobbying from private hospitals, saying the move was made to ensure proper preparation and a smooth rollout.

He explained that the initiative is a positive step towards improving the country's healthcare financing model but requires careful planning, sufficient data and capacity building before it can be effectively implemented.

"The decision to postpone the DRG implementation was not due to any external pressure or lobbying. The reason is that for an initiative of this importance, we must proceed with careful preparation and proper management to mitigate any possible...