The Ministry of Health (MOH) in Singapore announced plans to significantly expand home palliative care services, aiming for a 50% increase by 2025. This ambitious expansion will result in an additional 1,200 home care places, elevating the total to 3,600, ensuring more individuals have access to compassionate end-of-life care within the comfort of their homes.
Comprehensive Capacity Boost
Alongside the boost in home care services, the MOH is also set to enhance inpatient and day hospice facilities. The planned increase will see inpatient hospice capacity rise by 15% to accommodate 300 beds, and day hospice services will see a 12% increase, offering 140 day hospice places by 2025. These enhancements are part of a broader initiative to provide more comprehensive palliative care solutions across the nation.
National Strategy for Palliative Care
Launched in July of the previous year, the 2023 National Strategy for Palliative Care is Singapore’s roadmap to expanding and refining palliative care services. The strategy’s goal is to empower more individuals to experience a dignified and comfortable end-of-life journey, in line with their wishes and preferences.
Supporting Families with an Equipment Rental Scheme
To further support patients and their families, especially those preferring at-home care, the MOH will roll out an Equipment Rental Scheme (ERS). This scheme aims to offer affordable and prompt access to essential medical equipment such as hospital beds and oxygen concentrators, easing the logistical and financial burdens on families during challenging times.
