Outpatient Priority Scheme for Frail and Elderly

Name and Constituency of Member of Parliament

Ms Joan Pereira
MP for Tanjong Pagar 

Question No. 786

To ask the Minister for Health (a) what is the current scheme on priority queue for frail and elderly patients seeking outpatient treatment at the polyclinics and hospitals; and (b) whether this priority scheme is also applicable across all patient service points such as the x-ray department and pharmacy.

Written Reply

1        All our polyclinics and specialist outpatient clinics have implemented appointment booking to minimise waiting time for patients.  As many of our patients are elderly, appointments are given based on clinical need.  This ensures that patients who are more ill or require urgent medical attention are seen earlier regardless of age.

2        Nevertheless, clinic staff are trained to identify patients with potential fall risks, mobility issues or who appear unwell and assistance will be provided when necessary.  Wheelchairs are available and service points are also installed with mobility aids such as grab bars, ramps and lifts.  Priority seats are available for those who need to sit while waiting for their turn.

3        Polyclinics also have self-help kiosks, online or mobile platforms for payment and booking of next appointments for the convenience of the patients and caregivers.  Medications can also be home-delivered or collected at selected retail outlets and Pillbox lockers.  These initiatives minimise the need to queue at payment or pharmacy counters.