Formal Classification of Care Transport Within Transport and Healthcare Infrastructure Frameworks and Impact on Long-term Funding and Policy Planning

Mr Jackson Lam asked the Acting Minister for Transport (a) whether care transport is formally classified within Singapore's transport or healthcare infrastructure frameworks; (b) how this affects long-term funding and planning; and (c) whether a dedicated policy category is being considered to reflect its hybrid role.

The Ministry of Transport and the Ministry of Health (MOH) work closely together on transport options for healthcare needs. Our public transport network is barrier-free and wheelchair accessible. Taxis must accommodate foldable wheelchairs. Certain hospitals and other healthcare institutions also provide shuttle services to support last-mile travel from transport nodes.

In addition, MOH funds Senior Care Centre, Community Dialysis, Day Hospice and Medical Escort and Transport service providers to provide subsidised transport services, so commuters with more specialised needs can have affordable access to care.