Plans to Increase Licensed Allied Health Professionals Beyond Current Growth Trend

Dr Choo Pei Ling asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health (a) whether there are plans to further increase the number of licensed allied health professionals (AHPs) regulated by the Allied Health Professions Council beyond the current growth trend; (b) if so, what are the projected numbers for the next five years; and (c) whether there are plans to expand the categories of AHPs regulated by the Council.

Mr Ong Ye Kung: The total number of registered allied health professionals (AHPs) regulated by the Allied Health Professions Council (AHPC) has been growing by about 6% every year, from 6,000 in 2019 to 8,000 in 2024. We expect the numbers to continue to increase at about the same rate, to meet the needs of an ageing population.

Currently, the registered AHPs comprise diagnostic radiographers, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, radiation therapists and speech-language therapists. Ministry periodically evaluates the risk profiles of other allied health professions to determine if it is necessary to expand the number of professions. We are working towards requiring psychologists to be registered, focusing on those providing direct care that involves higher-risk assessments and interventions.