SUPPORTING COMMUNITY DOCTORS: Singapore GPs Seek More Support as Chronic Care Demand Surges

Why It Matters

The surge strains primary‑care capacity, risking patient outcomes and raising system costs unless government support and fair remuneration are enhanced.

Key Takeaways

• Singapore GPs see 30% rise in chronic care cases.
• Small clinics struggle despite $350M government grant increase.
• Waiting times for diabetic nurse counselors can exceed a month.
• Doctors demand fair remuneration for added services and staffing.
• Policy shift pushes more patients from polyclinics to community GPs.

Summary

Family doctors in Singapore are warning that chronic illness and preventive care demand has jumped sharply as the health ministry pushes patients from polyclinics into the community.

GPs report a 30% rise in chronic cases over the past year, with another 20‑30% expected as subsidies expand to conditions like thyroid disorders. Government grants for clinics rose 50% to $350 million in 2025, yet operating costs have climbed over 20% and staffing remains thin.

Dr. Muhammad Bahajaj estimates a further 20‑30% surge, while Dr. Koo cites weeks‑long waits for diabetic‑nurse appointments. Dr. Thock notes that even with an average $140,000 grant per clinic, additional administrative hands and fair remuneration are still lacking.

If unaddressed, the strain on small practices could curb access to chronic‑disease management, push costs onto the public system, and undermine Singapore’s goal of a community‑anchored primary‑care model.

Original Description

Family doctors in Singapore are calling for more support as the demand for chronic illness management and preventive healthcare continues to climb. GPs say cases have risen by around 30% over the past year, with further increases expected as more care shifts from polyclinics to the community. Smaller clinics say they are struggling despite increased government grants aimed at easing the load. Muhammad Bahajjaj reports.