Average Wait Time for Walk-in Patients at Polyclinics and Number of Patients Turned Away

The following question stood in the name of Mr Saktiandi Supaat –

To ask the Minister for Health (a) what is the current average waiting time for a walk-in patient at a polyclinic; (b) what is the current average number of people who are turned away each day on the basis that there are no more queue numbers issued even if they have arrived within the polyclinic’s opening hours; (c) of which, what proportion is above the age of 55 years old; and (d) if any of the foregoing data is unavailable, whether the Ministry will consider collecting them.

Sir, the overall median and 95th percentile doctor consultation waiting time for walk-in patients at polyclinics in February 2023 was 17 minutes and 164 minutes respectively. We currently do not track the number of patients turned away from the polyclinics, nor the proportion above 55 years of age.

Given their high volumes, the polyclinics generally operate on an appointment basis to optimise capacity, patient waiting times and manpower allocation. For walk-in patients who are unable to get a same day appointment, the polyclinics will triage based on medical needs. Patients requiring urgent medical attention will be seen by the doctor, whilst non-urgent cases may be advised to seek treatment at a nearby general practitioner (GP) clinic. Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) cardholders can receive subsidies for medical care at CHAS GP clinics. Such triaging is generally independent of age.

To meet anticipated healthcare needs, we are developing more polyclinics and are on track to meet our target of 32 polyclinics by 2030.