More nurses to anchor care in community settings as Singapore's population ages

Singapore General Hospital is expanding its nursing workforce to focus on community-based care, aiming to support the nation's rapidly aging population. This initiative involves enhancing nursing roles in community health posts and strengthening care within long-term residential facilities.

Health Minister Ong Ye Kung highlighted the importance of community care in early detection of health issues, stating that effective interventions can prevent conditions from becoming severe. The goal is to provide continuous and preventive care outside of hospital settings.

Nurses at community health posts (CHPs) will serve as the first point of contact for residents with chronic conditions and those needing preventive health services. They will conduct assessments, offer counseling, and ensure adherence to treatment plans established under the Healthier SG initiative.

The Ministry of Health is also upskilling nurses in nursing homes, particularly advanced practice nurses (APNs), to take on leadership roles. These nurses will be empowered to assess patients, initiate first-line treatments, and conduct regular reviews, thereby reducing hospital admissions and improving the quality of care for residents.