Reducing Duplication of One-stop Online Platforms Developed for Mental Wellness

NOTICE PAPER NO. 736

NOTICE OF QUESTION FOR ORAL ANSWER
FOR A SITTING OF PARLIAMENT ON 4 OCTOBER 2021

Name and Constituency of Member of Parliament

Dr Wan Rizal

MP for Jalan Besar GRC

Question No. 1882

To ask the Minister for Health with regard to HPB’s development of a one-stop online portal for national mental health resources (a) what are the reasons for developing this portal instead of building on the existing one-stop mental health platforms; (b) how will the new portal be different from the existing one-stop mental health platforms; (c) how will the Government prevent or reduce duplication of such one-stop platforms from emerging; and (d) how does developing a new portal reduce the number of existing information sources on mental health.

Answer

    Currently, there are numerous online resources on mental health and well-being by government agencies and private providers, which can be confusing and overwhelming for those who are searching for information. In addition, the information at some of these online resources may not be relevant, current or credible.  In view of this, the COVID-19 Mental Wellness Taskforce (CoMWT) had recommended for a one-stop online portal for mental health resources to be developed. 

2.   The one-stop portal does not aim to reduce the number of online information sources or portals on mental health. Rather, it aims to serve as a trusted resource that will allow Singaporeans to access reliable, comprehensive and current information that have been curated by experts and various agencies, in an easy and convenient manner. The portal will be developed on HealthHub, which is an existing one-stop platform offering Singaporeans access to a wide range of health content, rewards and e-services.