Possible Increase in Patients Seeking Medical Attention for Eyesight Problems Due to Work-from-home and Home-based Learning and Plans to Educate Public on Maintaining Good Eye Health

Mr Melvin Yong Yik Chye asked the Minister for Health (a) whether the Singapore National Eye Centre has seen an increase in patients seeking medical attention for eyesight problems as a result of the Work-from-Home and Home-based Learning arrangements; and (b) whether the Ministry intends to embark on a public education campaign on the importance of maintaining good eye health in the post-COVID-19 new normal.

The Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC) is unable to quantify the number of patients seeking medical attention for eyesight problems arising from the Work-from-Home and Home-based Learning arrangements since 2020.

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, SNEC ophthalmologists have been giving education talks through public webinars organised by the SNEC as well as in partnership with grassroots organisations such as Lions Clubs of Singapore. The talks cover a wide range of topics including myopia prevention and eye care while working or studying at home. SNEC consultants have also provided useful tips on how parents can care for their children’s eyes via interviews with various mainstream media.

The Health Promotion Board (HPB) has been actively promoting myopia prevention through programmes such as the National Myopia Prevention Programme (NMPP), which was launched in 2001, and involves annual vision screening for children and workshops to equip parents with strategies to develop good eye care habits in their children. The Ministry of Health, HPB and public healthcare institutions will continue to look into avenues to promote eye health in the new normal.