Malaysia’s Health Ministry launches ERAT programme to improve diabetes care and self-management for 3.6 million adults with the condition.
PUTRAJAYA: The Ministry of Health has launched the Empowering Patients Living with Diabetes programme, a new national initiative aimed at improving diabetes care and promoting self-management among Malaysians living with the condition.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad stated the programme was developed in collaboration with the Malaysian Pharmacists Society and Novo Nordisk.
He explained the programme aims to revolutionise care and support for diabetes patients by leveraging the expertise of Diabetes Medication Therapy Adherence Clinics pharmacists.
Speaking at the launch, he revealed an estimated 3.6 million adults in Malaysia are living with diabetes, with nearly half unaware of their condition.
“The numbers are concerning,” he said during his speech.
“This tells us that we must act urgently and strategically to reach those at risk, strengthen prevention and ensure continuous care for those already diagnosed.”
He emphasised that pharmacists play a pivotal role in the DMTAC by supporting patients through medication adherence, lifestyle guidance and close monitoring.
“All of which are essential to achieving better glycaemic control and long-term health outcomes,” he added.
DMTAC began in 2000 as a pharmacist-led service with close collaboration with doctors and other healthcare professionals.
Through DMTAC, pharmacists help patients ensure they take their medicines correctly and safely.
Patients attend structured follow-ups where pharmacists assess adherence, identify drug-related problems, provide counselling, and guide them in managing their diabetes.
According to Dzulkefly, local studies conducted in hospitals and health clinics have shown significant improvements for patients under DMTAC.
These patients achieved better blood sugar control, medication understanding, and overall outcomes compared to standard care.
As of today, 402 MOH facilities nationwide provide DMTAC services, supported by 30 training centres and 37 certified preceptors.
He highlighted that the ERAT programme reflects MOH’s ongoing efforts to transform health service delivery towards preventive, patient-centred primary care.
The programme also aims to strengthen the health system through capacity-building and to empower patients through health literacy and self-care.
The event was also attended by Denmark’s Ambassador to Malaysia Kirstine Vangkilde Berner and Novo Nordisk Pharma general manager Dr Praful Chakkarwar. – Bernama
