PROVISION OF 24-HOUR NON-EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES BY POLYCLINICS

Mr Low Thia Khiang asked the Minister for Health whether he will consider requiring polyclinics to provide 24-hour non-emergency medical services.

Mr Yeo Cheow Tong: There is no need for polyclinics to provide 24-hour non-emergency medical services. After the operating hours of polyclinics, patients with non-emergency conditions can either use GP clinics that are open till 9 pm, and after that, use 24-hour GP clincs and 24-hour outpatient clinics in private hospitals or wait till the next day. Emergency patients should go directly to the A&E Departments of acute hospitals for treatment.