AIR-CONDITIONING CLASS C WARDS IN PUBLIC HOSPITALS

Mdm Claire Chiang See Ngoh asked the Minister for Health, in our overall effort to enhance the comfort level of Singaporeans living in tropical conditions by providing air-conditioning in work places and public transportation at negligible costs, will the Minister consider air-conditioning Class C wards in public hospitals to offer comfort to sick patients.

Mr Lim Hng Kiang: Public sector hospitals offer a range of wards to meet different needs. Ward classes A, B1 and B2+ are air-conditioned. Ward classes B2 and C are not air-conditioned but are well ventilated and have ceiling fans. Having fans instead of air-conditioning does not affect the quality of treatment or the pace of recovery. This is consistent with our approach to concentrate on effective, up-to-date medical treatment at the Class B2 and C wards, and not be distracted by frills and embellishments.

1 Serious crimes are classified as the 10 major offences of murder, rape, outraging modesty, robbery, snatch theft, housebreaking, motor vehicle-theft, cheating and related offences, rioting and serious assault.

2 Singapore citizens and Permanent Residents.