Shahira Abdullah on supporting healthcare

As Singapore begins to move beyond the COVID-19 pandemic, it must continue to prioritise and support healthcare, said NMP Shahira Abdullah in Parliament on Tuesday (May 9). She said a motion moved in the House acknowledges the importance of healthcare and seeks to ensure that healthcare workers and patients alike get the support and resources they need to thrive. It recommends a whole-of-Government approach to building a healthier and more resilient society. Dr Shahira highlighted three areas that require continued attention. First - a shortage of healthcare workers. She suggested several ways to retain and attract talent, including granting permanent residency to the immediate family members of healthcare workers who are good performers, providing more flexible work arrangements and improving the home caregiving landscape with better support. Second - dental care for migrant workers. Dr Shahira proposed that their primary healthcare plan be extended to cover urgent dental care. This would mean cases of pain as well as infection and swelling which, if untreated, could be life-threatening. Third - ensuring oral health is addressed as part of successful ageing and inclusive healthcare. She said there is a need to improve awareness of, and access to dental care for the elderly and those with special needs.