KUCHING: Sarawak is seeking private doctors to contribute to corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives by offering early diagnostic services for children at the One-Stop Early Intervention Centre (OSEIC).
Women, Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah said currently, only one doctor from Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) is serving to identify any disabilities among children.
She said the CSR initiative is crucial as it can help to address the long waiting list for early screening services.
“If private doctors or individuals are willing to participate in CSR, they could provide screening services even once a month.
“The more doctors who come forward, the more children can be screened and receive timely early intervention.
“A monthly contribution would already make a significant difference. We hope more doctors will step up to provide these screenings and determine suitable interventions,” she said.
She said after attending the OSEIC Sarawak Tea Reception at the Penview Convention Centre (PCC) Demak here recently.
Fatimah also stressed the urgency of this effort, as the sole doctor at OSEIC, who is from SGH, is expected to pursue career advancements soon, potentially leading to a shortage of medical personnel.
“If the current doctor can no longer serve, it could disrupt the continuity of screening services. This is why we urgently need private doctors to assist,” she said.
Fatimah said the screening process requires careful attention and a significant amount of time, with each examination accommodating only four children per day.
“Unfortunately, the waiting list for screenings is very long. With only one doctor on duty, this limits the number of children who can be screened during each session,” she said.
