Government to innovate & leverage technology to meet healthcare needs

SINGAPORE: Health Minister Gan Kim Yong said the ministry is looking into flexible designs for new healthcare facilities so that there is room for expansion in future.

He was speaking on the sidelines of the inaugural Healthcare Infrastructure Technology & Engineering Conference.

Mr Gan also said services should be "sensibly co—located" so patients do not have to walk too far when they go for laboratory tests, collection of medication and consultations.

"We want designs which support healing and allow for the introduction of new models of care," he said.

For example, in the north, the government is building the Yishun Community Hospital, which is co—located with the Khoo Teck Puat Hospital.

It will be ready in 2015.

Mr Gan said the co—location will provide convenience for patients.

Mr Gan also said technology can also be used to help to lower healthcare costs.

Facilities can be designed to make use of natural lighting and ventilation and leverage environmentally—friendly features to maximise energy savings.

The two—day conference is organised by MOH Holdings to share global best practices. Some 300 participants are expected to attend the conference.

— CNA/xq