BUKIT MERAH POLYCLINIC (Plans for upgrading)

Dr S. Vasoo asked the Minister for Health whether there are further plans to upgrade the Bukit Merah Polyclinic and to provide more health-care services for the ageing population in the area.

Mr Yeo Cheow Tong: Sir, the Bukit Merah Polyclinic is conveniently located on the fourth floor of a HDB shopping complex in Bukit Merah Town Centre. It provides outpatient medical care for all age groups, maternal and child health care, home nursing and various types of screening services, including a free health screening service for the elderly. About 25% of the attendances are by patients over the age of 60 years. The Polyclinic regularly upgrades its facilities and services, and they are currently adequate to serve the needs of the population in the area.

The Ministry has planned new services to cater for the aging of the population in Bukit Merah. In addition to polyclinic services, we have recently started, in conjunction with the Presbyterian Welfare Services, a subsidised pilot home help and meal service for the elderly in the area.

The Ministry will also be establishing a Geriatric Centre in Alexandra Hospital at the end of this year. This Centre, which is close to Bukit Merah, will provide a comprehensive health care service for the elderly.