Experts highlight the transformative power of technology in health systems
The shift to a digital healthcare system in Singapore is inevitable, as the country embraces technological solutions to enhance efficiency and improve patient care. At the Singapore Health & Biomedical Congress, held on October 7, experts underscored how the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this transformation.
Empowering Patients Through Technology
Digitalisation in healthcare allows patients to manage their health remotely, with mobile apps and online medical records becoming integral tools. Professor Philip Choo, group CEO of the National Healthcare Group, emphasised that technology serves to optimise manpower, enrich patient experiences, and enable informed decision-making for future generations.
While technological advancements come with high costs, Prof Choo noted that they are essential, as manpower costs remain even higher. He stressed that sustainable healthcare requires Singaporeans to take ownership of their health.
COVID-19 and Digital Healthcare Integration
With over 80% of Singapore’s population fully vaccinated, the focus has shifted to home recovery programmes for asymptomatic or mild cases. Self-testing using antigen rapid tests is becoming standard, reducing reliance on more invasive and time-consuming polymerase chain reaction tests.
Associate Professor Kenneth Mak, Singapore’s Director of Medical Services, highlighted the importance of self-responsibility in managing health, supported by tools like telehealth, which enables remote medical consultations. As physical access to healthcare facilities faces ongoing restrictions, digital solutions will continue to bridge gaps.
Balancing Technology and Human Care
Technology in healthcare must ultimately improve care delivery and resource efficiency, said Associate Professor Jeremy Lim of the National University of Singapore. He noted that while individual patients benefit from advanced care, digital tools also enable broader outreach to underserved populations, reinforcing healthcare as a “people business.”
The experts acknowledged the relentless efforts of healthcare workers amid the pandemic. Singapore’s low COVID-19-related mortality rates reflect the resilience of its healthcare system, despite the strain of postponed elective surgeries and other disruptions in 2020.
A Vision for Resilient Healthcare
Minister Masagos Zulkifli, in his opening address, highlighted two key lessons from the pandemic: the importance of robust healthcare systems and the role of social trust in managing crises. He called for continued transformation of healthcare systems, stronger integration of social and health services, and proactive measures to address upstream health challenges.
Telehealth, he added, will become a cornerstone of care delivery, complementing traditional face-to-face consultations. The congress featured live and virtual sessions, fostering dialogue among experts on the future of healthcare in Singapore.
With digital tools paving the way, Singapore’s healthcare system is poised to adapt and thrive in a post-pandemic world.
