(Image credit: Wokandapix / Pixabay)

Would you accepted blood donated from an LGBT person, considering their “high-risk lifestyle”?

That was one of the questions posed by Dr Nur Illyani Mohamed Nawawi, a physician from Hospital Raja Perempuan Zainab II, Kota Bharu, in an open letter to Marina Mahathir. Dr Nur Illyani also criticised Marina for promoting the “LGBT lifestyle” in the media.

Earlier, Marina had said that LGBTs are only seeking the same rights enjoyed by other Malaysians and should not be discriminated against.

The debate over LGBT rights in Malaysia continues to rage on, bookended by issues like access to healthcare and the freedom to advocate for recognition of their gender identity.

However, as Prof Dr Adeeba Kamarulzaman, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, pointed out in her response to Dr Nur Illyani, medical professionals have to uphold the oath to deliver non-judgemental care to all patients, regardless of race, gender, religion and any other personal issues, including sexual orientation.

In healthcare, discrimination can kill. When it comes to conditions like HIV, which can actually be treated with antiretroviral drugs, discrimination prevents individuals from being able to access effective, life-saving treatment

Stigma and discrimination is not unique to Malaysia. In other countries, members of the LGBT community have spoken about their difficult experiences within the healthcare system, where healthcare professionals disregard their preferred gender, make assumptions about their lifestyle or deny them medical services.

The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) has issued a stern reminder to all doctors that it is their duty to treat all patients, including members of the LGBT community, equally.

Any patient, including those from the LGBT community, can lodge a complaint with the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC) if they feel that they have been discriminated against.

Listen to the podcast 'Physician's Pledge vs LGBT':

About Us

Terms & Conditions

Privacy Policy

FAQ

Contact Us

Careers

Advertise

Download The App

Car Sticker

Community

Copyright © BFM Media Sdn Bhd (200601017962)