Forum: Build on healthcare system to benefit more patients

As a 19-year-old volunteer healthcare worker, Healthier SG was the most positive event in 2024 for me and my colleagues. In 2025, I would like for us to collectively build a more caring, more empathetic and more compassionate Singapore. 

First, women’s health is a topic close to my heart. The Community Health Assist Scheme (Chas) now covers 23 chronic common conditions. I wish menstrual disorders and menopause could be added to the list of conditions covered.

Second, youth mental health is in crisis. There are four mental health conditions covered under the Chas chronic illnesses but the mental health medications are very expensive.

I wish for two more conditions to be covered – eating disorders and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. I know many of my peers suffer from these and I’m sure their parents would like them to have some Chas chronic subsidies at their neighbourhood family physician.

Third, I encourage the Ministry of Health (MOH) to continue to push for technology in healthcare. I realise that Singapore is fortunate because of the National Electronic Health Record, HealthHub, Healthy 365 and Singpass apps on our mobile devices.

Healthcare tech is trusted by patients and widely accepted by Singaporeans. Deeper technology allows greater equity in access to healthcare in Singapore, improving patient autonomy, social justice and benefits.

I would like to thank MOH for its forward-looking policies and encourage it to “jia you” for 2025.

Jessiree Kwok Jie Ning