Health

Assoc Prof Jamus Lim asked about the limitations on using MediSave for specialist consultations, prescribed medications, and diagnostic tests. Ong Ye Kung responded that MediSave currently covers certain expensive outpatient treatments and will see an increase in withdrawal limits for outpatient scans and the Flexi-MediSave limit for older patients. The Ministry of Health regularly reviews MediSave usage to maintain affordability while ensuring future healthcare needs are met.

Dr. Choo Pei Ling raised questions regarding data collection on the physical and mental health of caregivers, including their access to mental health services and tracking of caregiver burnout related to care recipients' outcomes. Ong Ye Kung responded that the government conducts several studies to assess caregiver health, including the Quality of Life Study and the WiSE Study, which reveal that caregivers of individuals with mental health issues or dementia experience higher stress and burden. Although caregiver burnout is not tracked, caregiver burden is monitored to evaluate program effectiveness. The government collaborates with community partners to enhance caregiver support, offering training, psychosocial resources, and subsidized respite services to alleviate caregivers' stress and improve their caregiving capacity.

Diana Pang Li Yen raised questions about the support systems for caregivers in Singapore, specifically regarding pre-caregiving education and post-caregiving reintegration. Ong Ye Kung responded that the government offers various measures to support caregivers, including public education campaigns, access to resources via AIC Links, and financial subsidies for caregiving costs. Mental health support is also available through peer support groups and mental health helplines for caregivers experiencing stress or burnout. Additionally, employment facilitation and reskilling initiatives are offered for caregivers returning to work, complemented by guidelines for flexible work arrangements.

Dr. Choo Pei Ling expressed gratitude for her position in Parliament and emphasized the interconnectedness of healthcare and research in Singapore. She highlighted the need for comprehensive healthcare strategies that focus on both improving the quality of life for seniors and enhancing caregiver support while urging for proactive health initiatives, especially during the early stages of life. Choo also called for a shift in research focus towards strategic domains that Singapore can lead in, ensuring investments yield measurable impacts rather than just quantitative outputs. Other speakers supported the notion of nurturing a "we first" society, stressing the importance of caring for seniors, the youth, and fostering community engagement, particularly through intergenerational connections and inclusive policies that address evolving societal needs.

Charlene Chen asked the Ministry of Manpower about tracking employee burnout data by sector and how pressures could be alleviated while directing jobseekers to in-demand areas. The Ministry does not systematically collect burnout data but has developed the iWorkHealth tool, revealing that one in three employees experiences work-related stress. Efforts to improve workplace mental well-being include the Tripartite Advisory, the Well-being Champions Network, and the upcoming Workbook on Workplace Mental Well-being that offers actionable guidance for employers. The Ministry also supports jobseekers through the Career Health SG initiative, promoting better career choices to avoid burnout.

Denise Phua Lay Peng asked if subsidized patients could be directly transferred from a National Healthcare Group hospital to a SingHealth hospital without needing a new polyclinic referral to keep their subsidies. The Minister of State for Health confirmed that such transfers allow patients to retain their subsidy status, regardless of whether they remain within the same healthcare cluster or move between clusters. Denise Phua expressed concern about the communication of this policy to patients, particularly those from the Breast Cancer Foundation, and requested confirmation of its implementation. The Minister acknowledged the feedback and offered to engage further to identify any specific communication gaps.

Gerald Giam Yean Song raised concerns about the Singapore Prison Service's ability to manage inmates with serious health conditions and infections. Assoc Prof Dr Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim affirmed that the Prison Service's healthcare system meets national standards, providing primary care and specialized treatment through partnerships with public healthcare institutions when necessary. Sylvia Lim asked supplementary questions regarding the adequacy of the system in preventing infections, the perception of ill health as a mitigating factor for crime, and whether the Minister had ever exercised the option to place seriously ill prisoners in more suitable facilities. The Senior Minister of State reassured that infection control protocols are in place, and he emphasized the commitment to care for inmates and continuously enhance the healthcare provided to them.

Yip Hon Weng asked about the typical breakdown of total bills in private hospitals, excluding physician fees, and whether the Ministry of Health (MOH) plans to extend fee benchmarks and moderate healthcare costs. Ong Ye Kung explained that bills vary significantly based on individual circumstances and treatments, making comparisons more effective when considering specific procedures. The MOH has established around 2,800 professional fee benchmarks for various surgical procedures and publishes annual billing information to aid patient decision-making. The Ministry is exploring further measures to guide private hospital fee-setting and manage healthcare costs through a dedicated committee involving various stakeholders.

Darryl David asked whether mindfulness and techniques for improving mental and emotional wellness are taught in schools. Desmond Lee explained that the character and citizenship education curriculum includes social-emotional competencies like self-awareness and emotional regulation to build resilience. While mindfulness isn't explicitly included in the curriculum, practices like breathing exercises are taught within mental health lessons. Additionally, these skills are reinforced through outdoor activities, co-curricular activities, and daily interactions, allowing students to apply their learning in real-life situations.

Wan Rizal sought information on support measures for national athletes to address financial stress, performance pressure, and transitions after sports careers. David Neo confirmed the government’s commitment to holistic support for athletes, highlighting the creation of the High Performance Sport Institute (HPSI) for comprehensive mental health and life management assistance. HPSI offers psychoeducation, monitoring for psychological distress, and resilience training to help athletes cope with pressures. Financial enhancements include monthly Central Provident Fund top-ups and a new spexEducation Scholarship for academic support. Collaboration with corporates is encouraged for employment opportunities and a cultural shift to appreciate athletes' journeys beyond victories.

Mariam Jaafar raised concerns about the regulatory framework for Integrated Shield Plans (IPs) to ensure alignment with healthcare priorities and patient protection. Vikram Nair inquired about the government's approach to address rising private healthcare costs, escalating insurance premiums, and challenges with pre-authorization processes. The Minister of State for Health, Rahayu Mahzam, outlined that current healthcare insurance issues stem from complex interactions among insurers, hospitals, and patients, and emphasized that enhancing regulation alone may exacerbate existing problems. Efforts are underway to create benchmarks, improve transparency, and educate consumers on their insurance options to promote fairer practices and insurer accountability. Solutions to rising healthcare costs involve a multi-faceted approach where all stakeholders must cooperate rather than relying solely on regulatory interventions.

Patrick Tay Teck Guan asked if the Ministry of Manpower is considering requiring employers to buy the Primary Care Plan (PCP) for Work Permit and S Pass holders not living in dormitories or in certain sectors, as well as whether medical insurance for Employment Pass holders would be mandated. Tan See Leng responded that the PCP is currently required only for certain groups due to higher risks of infectious diseases in communal living situations, but employers can choose to purchase it for other migrant workers. The Ministry does not mandate medical insurance for Employment Pass holders since they typically can afford personal coverage or receive benefits through their employment.

Melvin Yong Yik Chye questioned the Ministry of Health about the UK's proposed ban on high-caffeine energy drinks for youths under 16 and any local studies on the impacts of such drinks in Singapore. Ong Ye Kung confirmed awareness of the UK's proposal and noted that there's no international standard for caffeine intake, advising moderation. He mentioned that high-caffeine energy drinks represent less than 1% of sugar-sweetened beverage sales in Singapore, and these drinks are restricted in schools through the Healthy Meals in Schools Programme. Currently, no local studies are being conducted on the effects of high-caffeine energy drinks on youths, but the Ministry will continue to monitor international developments and promote healthy eating.

Alex Yeo asked about the current percentages of seniors over 70 diagnosed with dementia and osteoporosis and whether the Healthier SG Programme will include screenings for these conditions. Ong Ye Kung responded that approximately 11% of seniors have dementia and 16% have osteoporosis based on 2023 data. Care protocols for dementia and osteoporosis are being developed under Healthier SG, which will include evidence-based screening assessments and clinical management.

Gabriel Lam raised concerns about mental health programs for working adults aged 30 to 39 who face stress from parenting, caregiving, and economic insecurity, and requested more detailed data on suicide attempts to improve mental health interventions. Ong Ye Kung responded that the Ministry of Health has created touchpoints like the national mindline and outreach teams for access to mental health support. The Tripartite Advisory on Mental Health encourages workplace measures to support employee well-being, and resources are available through the Health Promotion Board. Current data on suicide deaths is published annually, but there is no comprehensive source for suicide attempt data.

Elysa Chen asked about the Ministry of Health's plans to re-evaluate the MediSave withdrawal limit and the frequency of reviews in light of changing healthcare costs and technologies. Ong Ye Kung responded that MediSave limits are reviewed regularly, with recent increases announced for the Flexi-MediSave Scheme and Outpatient Scans. The Flexi-MediSave Scheme will also cover more expensive dental treatments. The goal of MediSave is to help Singaporeans save for future healthcare needs while balancing current healthcare expenses.

Lee Hong Chuang asked the Government about potential financial support for seniors living alone to improve access to healthcare, social services, or tailored housing. Lawrence Wong outlined recent enhancements to support schemes, particularly benefiting lower-income seniors with substantial healthcare subsidies and increased quarterly cash payments through the Silver Support Scheme starting in 2025. Housing options include shorter-lease flats and Community Care Apartments, with incentives like the Silver Housing Bonus for those downsizing. Additional initiatives include outreach programs and community support aimed at helping seniors live safely and stay connected. The Government will continue to review these schemes to ensure seniors can age with dignity.