Deputy Health Minister Dr Hilmi Yahaya said the idea was being floated to all hospitals, especially those occupying older buildings.
“Many aspects of this move need to be analysed and studied before a decision is made.
“Having an ICU ward on the ground floor will certainly improve the transfer of patients in case of emergencies.
“This is not just about fires, you never know … we might even have an earthquake.
“These are things we will have to think about,” he told reporters after opening the 2016 World Heart Day at the Penang Hospital today.
Recently, twin fire tragedies at the Sultanah Aminah Hospital in Johor Bahru sparked a debate on the fire readiness of the general hospitals in the country.
In the first incident at the JB hospital, six died in the ICU ward.
Less than 24 hours later, another fire broke out at a ward below. Fortunately no one was hurt. The cause is suspected to be faulty wiring and triggered by water.
Meanwhile, Dr Hilmi announced a RM15.2 million upgrade for Penang Hospital, which he said would help make the building less prone to fires and other disasters.
The project will begin on Monday and will be completed in six months. Important surgeries will be conducted at nearby hospitals and in Alor Star.