Average Waiting Times for Appointments for Subsidised Mental Health Therapy and Counselling at Public Hospitals

81 Assoc Prof Daniel Goh Pei Siong asked the Minister for Health what are the average waiting times and waiting time range for patients to get an appointment for subsidised mental health therapy and counselling treatment at public hospitals.

Mr Gan Kim Yong: In our public hospitals, mental health therapy and counselling are provided at Specialist Outpatient Clinics. Between 2017 and 2018, the overall median waiting time for new subsidised psychiatrist appointments across the public hospitals ranged from 24 days to 27 days. Patients whose conditions are more severe or who require more urgent attention are given earlier appointments.

Other than referrals to Specialist Outpatient Clinics, under the Community Mental Health (CMH) Masterplan, we are strengthening primary and community-based care and support for those with stable mental health conditions.

MOH will continue to work with public hospitals and service providers in the community, including schools, social service agencies and family service centres, to ensure that we provide holistic and timely support for persons with mental healthcare needs.