Number of Local and Foreign Medical Technologists Employed in Restructured Hospitals

Dr Lam Pin Min asked 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.

Mr Gan Kim Yong: There are about 950 Medical/Laboratory Technologists (MLTs) in the restructured hospitals and 92% of them are locals.

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

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.

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