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Citizen Engagement, Healthcare IT

New SG health minister posts first blog

By Adrienne Valdez | 3 June 2011

Singapore’s newly appointed Health Minister Gan Kim Yong recently posted his first official blog entitled “Getting started on unfinished business”.

The blog initially recognizes the efforts and accomplishments of former Health Minister Khaw Boon Wan, who also used social media efficiently during his term.

“The quality of healthcare in Singapore is something we can all be proud of. Over the years, we have built a sound 3M system with a multi-level safety net. Nevertheless, as Boon Wan mentioned in his last blog, there were still some unfinished businesses, as well as new challenges that we will need to address,” Minister Gan said.

According to the minister the areas of focus he wants to address are capacity planning, healthcare costs, and the aging and related healthcare issues.

The minister’s blog also mentioned initial steps for each area of focus: • to plan ahead not only in terms of physical capacity but also human resource development to ensure sufficient supply of healthcare professionals and workers, • to review the funding framework, as well as the various financial assistance schemes, and make the necessary adjustments to ensure they remain appropriate and effective in helping Singaporeans cope with healthcare costs and yet prevent wastage or abuse, • and beyond healthcare, to help seniors lead a meaningful life.

“While some fine-tuning can be implemented in the short term, other major policy shifts may require careful analysis and planning to ensure we achieve the desired outcomes without compromising the fundamentals. I will consult widely, look out for the blind spots and extract good ideas for policy refinement,” Minister Gan added.

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