BIG CARING Group and Hospis Malaysia have partnered to enhance community-based palliative care by improving access to essential medications. The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by Wong Hooi Fen, Director of Pharmacy Division at BIG CARING Group, and Dr Lim Zee Nee, Medical Director of Hospis Malaysia.
Patients referred by Hospis Malaysia can now obtain prescribed medications conveniently through selected BIG Pharmacy and CARiNG Pharmacy outlets. The referral process will be coordinated based on patient location and medication availability, easing travel and logistical challenges for families managing palliative care at home.
Participating pharmacies are staffed with qualified pharmacists trained in safe dispensing practices and regulatory compliance, ensuring medications are handled appropriately.
Commenting on the collaboration, Wong Siew Lai, Chief Marketing Office of BIG CARING Group said, “Community pharmacies are among the most accessible healthcare touchpoints in the community and we believe they can play a stronger role in improving access to medication for patients receiving palliative care. Through this collaboration with Hospis Malaysia, we are confident we can progressively help bridge gaps in access to essential medications for more families navigating palliative care over time.”
Hospis Malaysia supports around 400 patients at a time with its team of doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and therapists in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor.
Dr Lim Zee Nee, Medical Director of Hospis Malaysia said, “This collaboration between Hospis Malaysia and BIG CARING Group marks a significant step in strengthening community-based palliative care and improving access to essential medications for patients with serious illnesses. Through this partnership, we aim to ease the burden on patients and caregivers by enabling more timely and convenient access to treatment, while enhancing continuity of care at home.”
“By combining clinical expertise with an extensive community pharmacy network, we are strengthening support for patients where it matters most – in their homes, with dignity and compassion. We thank BIG CARING Group for their commitment to advancing person-centred community healthcare.”
The collaboration is part of BIG CARING Group’s Ribbon of Hope C.A.R.E initiative, focusing on Affordable Medications and Accessible Services. Originally aimed at supporting cancer patients and caregivers, it also addresses broader palliative care and healthcare needs. The initiative is being implemented at selected outlets and is planned to expand to more locations, enhancing accessibility and convenience for patients and caregivers.