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Title authors
Gabriel Keng Yan Lee1,2?, Kuan Yee Wong3,2?, Wan Zhen Lee4,2?, Ch Kiat Chng5,2?
Abstract
In recent years, Singapore has encountered significant healthcare challenges, primarily due to a rapidly aging population and an escalating prevalence of chronic illnesses. The landscape of oral health within the country has undergone transformation with increased focus from the Ministry of Health towards implementing life-course oriented policies designed to ensure timely access to dental care at affordable costs for its residents.
A crucial element in this strategy is the National Dental Strategy, which acts as a guiding framework that integrates various aspects including funding, workforce management, and service capacity. To facilitate affordability and ease of access to public sector dental services, the government offers subsidies med at lowering out-of-pocket expenses. Enrolment in the Prime Minister's Health Shield Scheme further supports those who qualify by covering part of their healthcare costs, providing a safety net for vulnerable segments of the population.
One notable initiative is the implementation of electronic health records and telemedicine platforms, which have enabled better coordination among various healthcare providers and improved accessibility to dental care across diverse communities. The integration of technology has not only streamlined service delivery but also enhanced patient engagement by making appointments more convenient.
The Ministry's commitment to oral health exts beyond primary services; they are also dedicated to promoting preventive measures such as dental education programs in schools and workplaces. These efforts m to empower individuals with knowledge on proper oral hygiene practices, thereby contributing to a healthier population overall.
Despite these advancements, challenges persist regarding accessibility for certn groups and the need for further investment in dental infrastructure. Nevertheless, the Singaporean healthcare system demonstrates ongoing progress towards its goal of providing equitable access to quality dental care.
Acknowledgements: has benefited from numerous valuable insights obtned through collaborations with key stakeholders within governmental health entities.
References:
Speech by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong at World Health Summit Regional Meeting - Asia, Prime Minister's Office Singapore.
Ministry for Health Speech by Mr Gan Kim Yong at the MOH Committee of Supply Debate.
Foo C, Chia HX, Teo KW, et al. 2023. Healthier SG: Singapore's multi-year strategy to transform primary healthcare. Lancet Reg Health West Pac; 37:e100861.
Citation:
Lee GKY, Wong KY, Lee WZ, Chng CK. Evolution of Oral Health Policy in Singapore: Balancing Affordability and Accessibility. Journal of Dental Education, 2024.
that the references need to be formatted according to the appropriate citation style e.g., APA, MLA. The authors' affiliations are also included as part of their name identifiers.
The abstract should succinctly summarize the mn points discussed in the article:
Introduce the current challenges faced by Singapore's healthcare system due to an aging population and increasing prevalence of chronic diseases.
Highlight the importance of oral health policy changes led by the Ministry of Health, such as the National Dental Strategy with a focus on affordability and accessibility for dental services.
Mention key initiatives like electronic health records and telemedicine platforms that facilitate better coordination among healthcare providers and enhance patient access to care.
Discuss the incorporation of educational programs med at promoting preventive oral health practices in schools and workplaces.
Acknowledge remning challenges, such as potential disparities in service avlability for certn demographics, while recognizing ongoing progress towards equitable dental care delivery.
The article would ideally be a comprehensive review detling these advancements alongside their impact on public health outcomes and future implications for policy makers.
This article is reproduced from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37971154/
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Singapore Dental Healthcare Transformation Strategy Affordable Oral Health Access Policy Electronic Records in Dental Care Improvement Telemedicine for Remote Patient Support Preventive Education Programs Expansion Equitable Oral Health for All Policy