Health — Topics | PAPERCUTS

14 Mar 2016

Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) (Amendment) Bill

The Bill introduces a point-of-sale display ban to hide tobacco products from sight in general retailers, aiming to reduce impulse purchases and de-normalize smoking, with a one-year grace period for compliance.
It expands the ban on tobacco advertisements to cover electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) and online promotions, and strengthens enforcement powers for the Health Sciences Authority.
Members supported the Bill but suggested further measures, such as raising the minimum smoking age to 21 and considering plain packaging for tobacco products, with the government noting these are under ongoing review.

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14 Mar 2016

Assessment of Students under Police Investigation for Suicide Risk

Assoc Prof Daniel Goh Pei Siong questioned whether school counsellors should be required to assess suicide risks for students under police investigation and be present during police interviews on school premises.
The Acting Minister for Education stated that school counsellors are trained in suicide risk assessments but such screenings are not mandatory for all police-involved students to avoid unnecessary distress, focusing instead on those showing signs of emotional distress.
The Ministry emphasized the importance of consistent monitoring and parental-school collaboration to support students' well-being during and after police investigations, and is open to having counsellors present as "appropriate adults" based on ongoing reviews of police procedures.

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14 Mar 2016

Training for Educators and School Counsellors on Mental Health Assessment of Students

The Acting Minister for Education confirmed that teachers and school counsellors are equipped to help students with psychological and mental health issues, with teachers serving as the first point of contact.
Teachers are trained to establish a supportive classroom culture, recognize distress signals like social withdrawal or mood changes, and engage with affected students.
For complex cases, teachers refer students to qualified school counsellors, who provide interventions for issues like anxiety and depression and refer severe cases to medical professionals.

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14 Mar 2016

Police Training for Handling of Persons with Mental Illness

Assoc Prof Fatimah Lateef questioned the extent of police training in recognising mental health presentations and the standard procedures when encountering such cases.
The Minister for Home Affairs outlined that all officers undergo a three-month basic course and a three-month specialised course, which include handling individuals with mental health conditions.
Police collaborate with agencies like IMH and AIC, referring non-dangerous cases to AIC and arresting dangerous individuals under the Mental Health Care and Treatment Act for assessment at IMH.

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14 Mar 2016

Hospital Claims for Patients Warded before MediShield Life Effective Date

The Minister clarified that MediShield Life coverage applies only to hospital admissions on or after 1 November 2015, with patients admitted before that date continuing under the old MediShield scheme.
It was noted that existing government subsidies, Medisave usage, and Medifund are available to help patients with healthcare costs, and MOH has publicised these transition arrangements.
Lim Biow Chuan raised a concern about an older patient who aged out of pre-MediShield Life coverage and suggested automatic eligibility under MediShield Life without needing discharge and re-admission.
The Minister responded that a universal scheme cannot address every unique circumstance but encouraged the resident to contact MOH for case-specific assistance and potential financial support.
The debate highlighted the need for flexibility in handling edge cases during the transition to MediShield Life, with MOH committing to review individual cases.

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14 Mar 2016

Help for Singaporeans to Obtain Subsidised Rates at Public Hospitals after Expiration of Employer-provided Healthcare Insurance

All Singaporeans can choose subsidised ward classes at public hospitals and receive financial counselling to select appropriate options, with case-by-case assessments for those wishing to switch from non-subsidised to subsidised care.
The Ministry of Health emphasises targeted subsidies based on genuine financial need, declining to waive means-testing for those who previously used employer insurance, while working to streamline processes with medical social workers for timely assistance.
Efforts are ongoing to promote portable medical benefits through employer contributions to Medisave and MediShield Life, which is universal and independent of employers, to support healthcare coverage beyond employment.

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1 Mar 2016

Pensioners' Out-of-pocket Medical Expenses since Implementation of MediShield Life

Mr Png Eng Huat asked whether pensioners' out-of-pocket medical expenses have changed since MediShield Life started and if all pensioners know about free MediShield Life for their spouses.
Minister Gan Kim Yong stated that pensioners have not paid higher out-of-pocket costs and may pay less with MediShield Life, while the government covers premiums for pensioners and dependents on certain schemes.
The Public Service Division has informed eligible pensioners, held engagement sessions, and maintains a hotline to address queries about the MediShield Life arrangements.

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1 Mar 2016

Pioneer Generation Fund (Amendment) Bill

The Pioneer Generation Fund (Amendment) Bill 2016 introduces two technical amendments to clarify that the Pioneer Generation Package benefits are not based on financial need, ensuring all Pioneers receive similar support regardless of financial status.
The amendments, to sections 3 and 27 of the Pioneer Generation Fund Act 2014, address concerns raised by former NMP Ms Chia Yong Yong to avoid any doubt that the fund could be restricted to those needing financial help.
The benefits covered include Medisave top-ups, MediShield Life premium subsidies, and additional healthcare subsidies at various clinics and the Pioneer Generation Disability Assistance Scheme.
The Bill was read a Second time, considered in Committee, and passed without amendments.

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1 Mar 2016

Changes in the Doctor- and Nurse-to-Population Ratios

The Ministry of Health is expanding the healthcare workforce as part of the Healthcare 2020 Masterplan, with a focus on planning ahead for an ageing population and rising demand, rather than setting specific doctor- and nurse-to-population ratio targets.
The Minister emphasized that staffing ratios alone do not guarantee better health outcomes, and the Ministry is prioritizing productivity improvements, new care models, and tripartite partnerships to enhance healthcare quality and sustainability.
Initiatives to grow the Singaporean core include funding mid-career transitions, supporting overseas-trained Singaporeans, improving work environments, and collaborating with educational institutions to attract more students into healthcare careers.

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29 Feb 2016

Early Intervention Services for Children with Speech Delay, Autism and at Risk of Moderate to Severe Disabilities

The Minister reported that the Early Intervention Programme for Infants and Children (EIPIC) served about 2,600 children in 2015, with 6% having speech delays and 47% diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders.
The current average waiting time for EIPIC is five to six months, with the Ministry planning to expand capacity by 28% to reach 3,200 places by 2018.
Children with milder needs are served through the Development Support Programme in mainstream preschools, which benefited about 1,200 children in 2015 and will see further development.

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29 Feb 2016

Measures to Retain Nursing Graduates in Public Sector

Over the past three years, 76% of nursing graduates who joined the public sector remained there after five years.
Since 2014, the "Care" package has increased nurses' base salaries by 3-10% annually and provided a Nurse Special Payment of 0.5 month’s salary.
Public healthcare institutions are expanding flexible and part-time work arrangements, with successful pilots being scaled across all public hospitals.
Career progression has been enhanced through revised bridging courses for Enrolled Nurses and new roles like Assistant Nurse Clinician, with increased funding for skills upgrading.
The government emphasizes the need for societal recognition and appreciation of nurses beyond salaries and work conditions.

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29 Feb 2016

Plans for Paediatric and Neonatology Services for Residents in Northern Sector

Er Dr Lee Bee Wah asked the Minister for Health about plans and timelines for introducing paediatric and neonatology services for residents in the northern sector.
The Minister responded that paediatric services are already available at primary care levels through polyclinics, GP clinics, and specialized community clinics in the north.
The Woodlands Integrated Healthcare Campus, including a new acute hospital, is planned to open in phases from 2022 to complement existing facilities like Khoo Teck Puat Hospital.
Clinical services for the new campus will be designed based on regional healthcare needs and optimal use of national resources.
The Ministry aims to ensure accessible and high-quality healthcare services for patients in the northern region.

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29 Feb 2016

Compliance Rate for National Childhood and Adolescent Immunisation Schedule

The compliance rate for measles and diphtheria vaccinations among Singaporeans and Permanent Residents is about 95% or higher, with herd immunity achieved for other NCIS vaccines.
The government uses an educational approach, with reminders from the National Immunisation Registry and follow-ups by the School Health Service for unvaccinated children.
Adverse effects reported in the last three years were mostly known reactions like injection-site swelling, pain, fever, and febrile fits.

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29 Feb 2016

Utilisation Rates of SCDF's First-Responder Apps for Civilians

Ang Hin Kee inquired about the utilisation rates and user numbers of SCDF’s Save-a-Life initiative and myResponder app, and plans to expand reach to more spaces and CPR/AED-trained individuals.
K Shanmugam reported that since its 2015 launch, the myResponder app has been downloaded about 9,000 times and alerted community first responders to over 3,800 cardiac arrest cases.
The Save-a-Life initiative includes AED installations in HDB estates and DARE programme training, with about 300 residents trained in each of six pilot constituencies.
SCDF has partnered with various organizations to install AEDs in schools, community centres, sports facilities, and SMRT taxis, with plans to extend to all HDB estates by 2018.
The government aims to continue expanding the initiative to enhance community self-help and improve cardiac arrest survival rates.

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29 Feb 2016

Effectiveness of Existing Disease Surveillance Programmes

The Ministry of Health maintains a robust surveillance system for communicable diseases, leveraging reports from clinicians, laboratories, and government agencies to track disease trends and infectious agents.
Globalization and zoonotic diseases pose increasing risks, necessitating regular system reviews to address threats like Ebola, Zika, Avian Flu, and MERS.
The ministry aims to balance effective case reporting with minimizing administrative burdens on healthcare workers by using IT and data analytics to streamline processes.
The National Centre for Infectious Diseases, set to open by 2018, will enhance national capacity for outbreak prevention and containment through collaboration with the Institute of Infectious Diseases and Epidemiology.
All stakeholders are urged to work together to protect Singapore from both existing and emerging infectious disease threats.

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29 Feb 2016

Obesity and Physical Activity Levels among Students and Youths

Intan Azura Mokhtar asked about physical activity levels by age group, trends in overweight children, and initiatives to monitor diet, activity, and weight among youths.
Gan Kim Yong provided data showing varying physical activity levels across student groups and adults, with a slight rise in overweight children from 11% in 2011 to 12% in 2015.
The government has introduced school initiatives like healthier canteen options, reduced-sugar beverages, increased physical education hours, and family involvement to promote healthy habits, with plans for more programmes in the future.

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29 Feb 2016

Mental Capacity (Amendment) Bill

The Mental Capacity (Amendment) Bill was presented by Minister Tan Chuan-Jin to amend the Mental Capacity Act, marking its first reading in Parliament.
The Bill proposes changes to the existing legal framework governing the mental capacity of individuals, with a second reading scheduled for a future parliamentary sitting.
The debate focuses on updating the Act to better support persons with diminished mental capacity, potentially involving new provisions for decision-making and care arrangements.

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29 Feb 2016

Alternating Chemicals to Prevent Mosquitoes Developing Immunity against Repellents

Yee Chia Hsing asked if the Ministry alternates chemicals in fogging to prevent mosquito resistance and whether it would review current practices.
The Senior Minister of State responded that fogging is selectively and targetedly used, with resistance monitored, but chemicals are not routinely alternated as standard procedure.
The Ministry emphasized that source reduction is the primary method for mosquito control, with fogging only complementary in urgent situations like active dengue outbreaks.
Public cooperation in removing breeding habitats is urged to protect against mosquito-borne diseases.

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29 Feb 2016

Repairs of Damaged or Old Drains to Prevent Water Stagnation and Mosquito Breeding

Mr Lim Biow Chuan asked the Minister to expedite repairs of damaged or old drains to prevent water stagnation and mosquito breeding, which can contribute to dengue outbreaks.
The Minister responded that PUB and NEA conduct regular inspections, cleaning, and maintenance, prioritizing repairs and upgrades to keep drains functional and prevent stagnant water.
Mr Lim sought clarification on whether immediate repairs could be requested for damaged drains instead of waiting for the Interim Estate Upgrading Programme, to address dengue risks promptly.
The Minister assured that PUB will fix any drainage problems identified, emphasizing the commitment to maintain drains and protect public health.
Both parties agreed on the importance of keeping drains in good condition to prevent floods and vector-borne diseases like dengue.

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29 Feb 2016

Measures to Protect Singaporeans from Zika Virus

Singapore has enhanced surveillance and testing for Zika, added it to the list of notifiable diseases, and plans to admit and screen contacts of confirmed cases while expanding laboratory capacity and collaborating across agencies for vector control.
The Health Sciences Authority requires a 28-day deferral for blood donors who traveled to outbreak areas, and advisories have been issued to travelers on self-protection and symptom monitoring with testing if symptoms arise.
A clinical advisory group is developing guidelines for managing Zika in pregnant women, with routine ultrasound scans recommended and financial assistance available for subsidized patients, while termination of pregnancy remains a personal choice.
Vector control through community efforts, such as the "Do the Mozzie Wipeout" campaign, is prioritized, and if community spread occurs, measures will shift from containment to mitigation similar to dengue control.

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