Consolidation of Small Medical Practices by Corporate Chains and Supporting Viability of Independent Clinics

6 Mr Yip Hon Weng asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health (a) whether the Ministry monitors the consolidation of independent clinics into corporate chains due to cumulative regulatory burdens and its impact on personalised care accessibility; and (b) whether support measures for the compliance requirements under the Health Information Bill will include turnkey IT solutions and dedicated implementation assistance to ensure the continued viability of small practices.

Mr Ong Ye Kung: The Ministry of Health does not monitor the consolidation of independent clinics into corporate chains. That said, we regulate clinical standards and ethical practice of clinicians.

The Government will provide support to healthcare providers, including small practices, to comply with the Health Information Act (HIA). This includes funding support for procuring HIA-compliant information technology systems and training.