More synergy on the cards for schemes like Healthier SG, Age Well SG: Ong Ye Kung

Such efforts can help detect undiagnosed chronic illnesses and develop health plans

- Lee Nian Tjoe

In his second term as Health Minister, Mr Ong Ye Kung wants to create greater synergy among national initiatives like Healthier SG and Age Well SG.

Healthier SG is a preventive health programme under the Ministry of Health (MOH), while Age Well SG, which helps seniors age well in their communities, is led by MOH, the Transport Ministry and the Ministry of National Development.

"Last few years, what we did (was) we rolled out major strategies: Healthier SG, Age Well SG," Mr Ong said on June 1. "This term, with me still at MOH, what we really need to do is to join forces."

Speaking to reporters at a community event organised by the North West District at the Singapore Turf Club, he gave an example of how Age Well SG, under which community health posts have been set up at active ageing centres, complements Healthier SG.

"Someone with chronic illness, someone unsure of their health status, can always approach the community health posts," he said, adding that these health posts are touchpoints which help residents stick to personalised health plans drawn up under Healthier SG.