Extending Range of Cast Applications at Polyclinics and GP Clinics to Relieve Work at A&E Departments at Hospitals

34 Mr Yip Hon Weng asked the Minister for Health (a) whether he can elaborate on the rationale behind the current limitations on cast application at polyclinics and general practitioner (GP) clinics, including backslabs, which can only be done at the accident and emergency (A&E) department; and (b) whether there are plans to extend cast application to polyclinics and GP clinics, equipping them with the relevant resources so as to reduce waiting times at A&E departments.

Mr Ong Ye Kung: Fractures vary in their severity. Simpler fractures are already managed in polyclinics, for example, through splints, arm slings and appropriate medication to relieve pain. More complex fractures may require additional investigations and specialised procedures to manipulate the fracture and restore bone alignment, before casts are applied. These cases are managed at the Accident and Emergency departments or Urgent Care Centres, where specific equipment and materials are available and healthcare professionals are trained for such conditions.

The polyclinics have in place, guidelines for management of fractures. This includes protocols for referring patients to a specialist or emergency services.