Med Lab Tech in RHs

13 August 2012

Question No. 246

Name of person: Dr Lam Pin Min

Question 

To ask the Minister for Health (a) what is the current number of medical technologists in the restructured hospitals; (b) what is the ratio of Singaporeans versus foreigners employed; (c) whether there is a shortage of Singaporeans taking up this vocation; and (d) whether the Ministry has plans to encourage Singaporeans to consider this career option.

Answer

1          There are about 950 Medical/ Laboratory Technologists (MLTs) in the restructured hospitals and 92% of them are locals.

2          The low vacancy rate of 4% and high proportion of locals suggests that there is no immediate shortage of Singaporeans taking up MLT as a career.

3          Nevertheless, given the important role MLTs play in the restructured hospitals, the Ministry and the public healthcare clusters will continue to work together to attract, develop and retain them.