SINGAPORE – The year 2024 has been pivotal for Singapore's healthcare landscape, featuring significant developments in pandemic preparedness, scrutinization of telemedicine, and pressing issues concerning cord blood banking. As we move into 2025, here’s a recap of the major health stories from the past year and what to expect ahead.

1. Amplified Pandemic Preparedness Efforts

In March, Singapore passed amendments to the Infectious Diseases Act, introducing a new intermediate status called Public Health Threat, alongside the existing Public Health Emergency declaration. This shift ultimately replaces the prior Disease Outbreak Response System Condition (DORSCON) framework, re-evaluating how the nation addresses varying public health crises.

In September, Singapore escalated its defenses against mpox (formerly monkeypox), responding to the World Health Organization's renewed declaration of the disease as a global emergency. Free vaccinations were made available to healthcare workers and close contacts of infected individuals, alongside rigorous contact tracing protocols. Health Minister Ong Ye Kung highlighted ongoing vigilance for four key infectious threats: H5N1 bird flu, Covid-19, mpox clade I, and a mysterious illness from Congo now recognized as a severe malaria case.

2. Telemedicine Faces Increased Oversight

Telemedicine saw explosive growth during the Covid-19 pandemic but faced heightened scrutiny in 2024. The Ministry of Health (MOH) took decisive action by revoking the license of the MaNaDr Clinic for unethical conduct, including alarmingly brief teleconsultations. The ministry is investigating other telehealth platforms following reports of lapses in adherence to clinical standards during online consultations, a concern amplified by sensational findings regarding lack of camera use.

3. Ongoing Crisis for Cordlife

Cordlife, Singapore's oldest private cord blood bank, endured a tumultuous year following the discovery of significant lapses in their storage facilities in late 2023. Tests revealed that around 5,300 cord blood units were non-viable, alongside additional uncovered cases affecting 2,150 patients. Hundreds of parents initiated legal proceedings against the bank, leading to multiple arrests of corporate leaders for potential breaches of legal obligations.

Having revamped their operations, Cordlife regained the ability to offer services in September, albeit under strict conditions. Despite these efforts, the company reported a staggering $1.6 million loss in Q3, indicating ongoing struggles ahead.

4. Innovating Healthcare Capacity

To accommodate the rising demand for healthcare due to an ageing population, the MOH announced plans for a new not-for-profit private acute hospital in January. This initiative aligns with the recent completion of the Woodlands Health Campus, which boasts 1,800 beds and caters to northern Singapore, alongside the Khatib Polyclinic, which opened in May, serving an additional 80,000 residents.

5. Expansion of Nutri-Grade Labeling

The MOH aims to extend the Nutri-Grade labeling initiative to include not just beverages but also pre-packed salt and cooking oil. This strategy targets reducing unhealthy intake levels, which are prevalent within the local population. The Nutri-Grade system has received recognition, with Singapore being awarded the 2024 World Health Organisation Healthy Cities Award.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we step into the new year, Singapore is preparing to enhance its MediShield Life insurance scheme, which will offer higher payouts for hospital and outpatient services beginning in April 2025. Mental health support systems are on the verge of expansion, with the National Mental Health Office slated to be fully operational, alongside the launch of a new helpline.

Additionally, the National Environment Agency (NEA) will advance efforts in the Project Wolbachia initiative aimed at dengue control, while 220 active ageing centers will open to better support seniors as Singapore heads towards its 'super-aged' status.

Innovative health initiatives are also on the horizon, including a national genetic testing program targeting familial hypercholesterolemia to address hereditary cholesterol issues affecting a substantial segment of the population.

In summary, 2024 has marked a year of introspection and reform in Singapore's healthcare domain, setting the stage for ongoing challenges and progressive solutions in 2025. As the nation continues to adapt, the focus remains on building a resilient and encompassing healthcare system for all citizens.