Why Malaysians Delay Getting Medical Cards—And the Cost of Waiting

For many Malaysians, getting a medical card feels like something you’ll do eventually. Maybe after you start a family. Maybe when you’re making more money. Or maybe once you’ve had a health scare and realise just how expensive private treatment can be.

But here’s the thing: delaying your first medical card doesn’t just put your health at risk—it can quietly cost you more than you think.

The Common Reasons Malaysians Wait

I’m still young and healthy.

This is perhaps the most common reason for putting off a medical card. And yes, if you’re in your 20s or early 30s, the odds may seem in your favour. But accidents and sudden illnesses don’t wait for the right age. Dengue, appendicitis, or a burst appendix can land even the healthiest young adult in a private hospital—with a bill running into the tens of thousands.

It’s too expensive.

Understandably, many view insurance as a financial burden. But basic medical cards are more affordable than most realise—especially when you start young. Entry-level plans can cost as little as RM80–RM150 a month, depending on coverage and provider.

Ironically, the longer you wait, the more expensive it gets. Premiums increase with age and may rise sharply if you develop any health conditions.

My company already provides one.

Employer-provided medical cards are a nice perk, but they’re often limited. Coverage may end the moment you leave or retire, and benefits may not include specialist treatment, room upgrades, or private hospital access.

Worse, if you try to get personal insurance after leaving your job—especially in your 40s or 50s—you may face exclusions, waiting periods, or significantly higher premiums.

The Financial Reality of Delaying

Let’s say you’re 28 and healthy. A comprehensive medical card might cost you RM120 per month. You put it off for 5 years, thinking you’ll revisit it later.

At 33, you’ve now developed a minor but chronic condition—say, asthma or high blood pressure. The same plan may now cost you RM220 per month, or come with exclusions for your condition.

That delay doesn’t just cost you more every month—it may limit what you’re actually covered for. Some insurers may decline your application outright.

Now imagine you experience a medical emergency before getting covered.

• Appendicitis surgery: RM15,000 – RM25,000
• Dengue with complications: RM10,000 – RM18,000
• Motor accident injury: RM30,000+ depending on severity

Without a medical card, all of this comes out of your savings—or worse, borrowed money.

The Hidden Cost: Waiting Periods

Even after you get a medical card, there’s often a 30-day general waiting period for illnesses, and up to 120 days for specific conditions like hernia, gallstones, or cardiovascular diseases.

If you wait until you’re already feeling unwell before applying, the coverage won’t kick in immediately. That’s why proactive planning is so important—insurance works best when you don’t need it yet.

Life Happens When You Least Expect It

Many young adults assume they’ll “sign up later,” only to find that life moves quickly—marriage, kids, career changes. In the middle of all that, medical coverage can get pushed to the background until a health issue forces it to the front.

Unfortunately, by the time you “need” a medical card, you may no longer qualify for the one you want. Pre-existing conditions, long-term medication, or even mental health histories can limit your choices.

The Benefits of Acting Early

• Lower premiums: The younger you are, the cheaper your plan.
• Stronger coverage: Fewer exclusions or underwriting issues.
• Peace of mind: Access to private hospitals without financial stress.
• Flexibility: Many plans allow you to upgrade later without new waiting periods.

Think of your medical card as a safety net. The earlier you set it up, the stronger and more affordable it becomes.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait for a Wake-Up Call

Getting a medical card isn’t about expecting the worst. It’s about being ready, financially and emotionally, if the unexpected happens.

Every year you wait increases the risk of higher costs, limited coverage, or out-of-pocket bills you’re not prepared for. You don’t need to start with the most expensive plan—just the one that makes sense for you now, and that protects your future self from the burden of “what if.”

Start while you’re healthy. Start while it’s affordable. Just don’t wait until you wish you had.