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H E A L T H C A R E D E M A N D V O L U M E III

1.2.3 Conclusion
It is a welcoming trend to see that there was an increasing tendency of population to seek
treatment from healthcare providers and pharmacists in dealing with acute illnesses. The
declining trend of taking other steps than seeking treatment is a promising pattern as well.

However, there is an area of concern, whereby self-medication and getting advice from
others than healthcare providers has increased in trend.

The practice of self-medication and seeking advice from non-healthcare providers may lead
to delay in seeking treatment and hence certain critical or chronic illnesses are not
diagnosed. Thus, it is imperative that this must be practiced in a safe and practical manner
whereby after a specified time and under certain conditions, help from healthcare
providers is mandatory.

1.2.4 Recommendation

In the way forward, in empowering people to take care of their own health, it is extremely
important that the population is equipped with the right information and knowledge to
make sound decisions for medical care.

1.3 TABLES OF FINDINGS

Table 1.1: Autonomy in deciding whether care needs to be sought.

NATIONAL HEALTH AND MORBIDITY SURVEY 2015 21 MINISTRY OF HEALTH MALAYSIA