Singapore developing a national strategy for health professionals; details ready in 2025

SINGAPORE – A national strategy that better defines the roles allied health professionals (AHPs) can play in Singapore’s evolving healthcare system is under development, with more details expected in 2025.

Second Minister of Health Masagos Zulkifli, who is also Minister of Social and Family Development, announced this at an international conference for AHP on November 1.

Mr Masagos said that as the healthcare landscape evolves, Singapore needs a clear strategy, strong leadership and a spirit of innovation to advance the allied health profession.

AHPs, which include occupational therapists, podiatrists and radiographers, play a crucial role alongside doctors and nurses in providing holistic care to patients.

These professionals are involved in the development of the national strategy to help them “play their part in our health system with a shared understanding of the areas of interest and the transformation needed to deliver national initiatives such as Healthier SG and Age Well SG”, said Mr. Massagos.

He added that the strategy will guide AHPs in addressing future challenges and improving population outcomes, and more details will be shared when the strategy is consolidated in 2025.

Adjunct Associate Professor Michael Ong, group director of allied health at the National University Health System (NUHS), said the national allied health strategy would enable professionals such as physiotherapists and psychologists to practice at the peak of their degree.

“Working to the best of their abilities, these professionals can make independent clinical decisions and provide effective and timely care as allied health expands within the community,” said Prof Ong.

The conference was attended by approximately 1,100 professionals and students from over 18 countries. Held at Max Atria @ Singapore Expo, it was organized by NUHS in partnership with SingHealth and National Healthcare Group.

In his speech, Mr. Masagos said that strong leaders are also needed to boldly promote the AHP profession because a strategy is only as good as those who implement it.

He highlighted the example of a leadership development strategy for the pharmacy sector aimed at nurturing leaders who can drive change, address challenges and seize opportunities.

It is also necessary to cultivate a spirit of innovation in rethinking ways to provide better care.

Mr. Masagos cited examples of innovative approaches in allied health care, including EatSafe, a national effort led by speech and language therapists and dietitians to provide a common language by standardizing terminology for all those involved in the care of those with swallowing difficulties.