Statistics on Retention Rates of Entry-level Care Workers and Tracking Stability of Care Industry

15 Ms Elysa Chen asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health (a) what is the current three-year retention rate for entry-level care workers; and (b) whether the Ministry will publish indicators to track whether care roles are becoming more secure and attractive for Singaporeans.

Mr Ong Ye Kung: The attrition rates at entry-level job grades in our Public Healthcare Institutions (PHIs) have generally improved between 2022 and 2024, decreasing from 6.4% to 5.0% for doctors; from 9.7% to 8.5% for nurses; and from 14.6% to 11.5% for support care staff.

Retaining healthcare workers is a challenge all round the world because of high demand for healthcare. The Ministry of Health ensures that healthcare remains an attractive career option through competitive remuneration, rewarding and fulfilling careers, and opportunities for learning and growth. It is also important that society values the work of healthcare workers and respects the professions.