Key Features of the Upcoming National Healthcare Overhaul
SINGAPORE: Singapore’s healthcare system is undergoing a significant transformation with the introduction of Healthier SG, a national programme designed to prioritise preventive care and empower citizens to manage their health with the support of family doctors. As Parliament debates the details of the plan, set to launch in the second half of 2023, here’s what you need to know about the upcoming changes.
One Family Doctor for Every Resident
Healthier SG aims to provide each resident with a dedicated family doctor who will guide their healthcare journey. Starting with those aged 60 and above, the programme will eventually expand to include residents aged 40 to 59. Each enrolled participant will receive personalised health plans, tailored by their chosen family doctor, who will monitor their progress and provide regular follow-ups. This strategy is designed to strengthen doctor-patient relationships and improve preventive care.
Enrolment will begin in the second half of 2023, with flexibility for residents to switch doctors if needed. The government will also ensure that demand is managed across clinics to avoid overburdening any single provider.
Free Health Screenings and Preventive Care
Upon enrolment, residents will be entitled to free annual health screenings, including tests for common chronic conditions such as Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidaemia, as well as screenings for cancers like breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer. The government will also provide vaccinations, including flu and pneumococcal jabs for seniors aged 65 and above. Specific medical screenings may be subsidised or referred to hospitals for further testing.
Using MediSave for Chronic Illness Treatment
To further alleviate the financial burden, those using MediSave for chronic illness treatment will no longer need to co-pay 15% of their medical bills in cash. Instead, MediSave will cover the entire cost. This change is aimed at encouraging individuals to take responsibility for their health and make necessary lifestyle changes.
Additional Subsidies for Medications
An extra tier of subsidies will be added to the Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) to level the price differences between GP clinics and polyclinics for common chronic medications. This will help residents maintain their preferred family doctor while ensuring more affordable access to necessary drugs.
Health and Wellness in the Community
Beyond medical care, the government is enhancing public infrastructure to encourage a healthy lifestyle. Community health-related activities, such as sports events and wellness programmes, will be promoted by local organisations. Parks, sports facilities, and other public spaces are also being improved to support physical activity and wellbeing.
Earning Rewards for Healthy Choices
Healthier SG will also integrate a rewards system, where residents can earn health points for staying active and making healthier food choices. These points can be redeemed for rewards at participating merchants. The Healthy 365 app will play a key role in this initiative, offering users the ability to track physical activity, monitor food intake, and sync with popular digital health apps like Apple Health Kit, Fitbit, and Samsung Health.
