The Association for Private Practitioners Sabah (APPS) is committed to sharing its medical expertise with the community, particularly civil servants. President Dr. Devadas Pathiyil Ramankutty highlighted the association’s ongoing initiatives, including awareness campaigns and support for various government bodies.

 

Through these programs, Dr. Devadas emphasized the importance of health awareness among government personnel, particularly police officers, who have faced alarming cases of sudden deaths with unknown causes. “We aim to ensure that police officers are informed about their health conditions, enabling us as doctors to provide necessary medical assessments and treatment,” he explained during the recent Health Screening Programme at the Sabah Police Headquarters.

 

This event was organized in collaboration with the Permai Polyclinics Group and Pathlab, coinciding with National Doctors’ Day. Notable attendees included Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Jauteh Dikun, PPG Founder Datuk Dr. James Jeremiah, and APPS Vice President Dr. Rizin Kusop, as well as Committee Member Datuk Margaret Lim, among others. Dr. Devadas noted that the diverse expertise within APPS allows for comprehensive medical examinations and tailored advice for police personnel.

 

A team of 20 medical experts conducted assessments and blood tests on approximately 120 officers, including lipid profile tests, liver function tests, and urine sampling to identify any underlying health issues. “Our goal is to prevent health problems that could lead to serious complications, which is why we conduct these tests,” he added. The association also provided free consultations and health supplements to promote well-being.

 

Due to the positive response, Dr. Devadas announced plans to expand these health initiatives. This aligns with APPS’s vision of supporting the community through ongoing programs in various districts in Sabah, including Benoni, Kuala Penyu, and Sipitang. They have also organized free medical and dental checkups for students at SK Talantang in Kota Marudu, with similar efforts planned for this year.

 

Dr. Rizin noted that the pilot health screening for the Sabah Police Force has yielded encouraging results, inspiring the association to continue these vital programs in the future. This initiative reflects APPS’s commitment to fulfilling its corporate social responsibility (CSR) to enhance public health.