More patients in Singapore to receive hospital-level care at home and in nursing homes

Singapore is enhancing its healthcare system by bringing hospital-level care directly into patients' homes and nursing facilities. The expanded Mobile Inpatient Care @ Home (MIC@Home) program allows suitable patients to receive treatment in familiar surroundings, reducing the need for hospital stays and easing the burden on healthcare infrastructure.

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At our advanced age, it’s not convenient to travel to and fro. I’m so happy that they can come to our house instead.

Mr. Jiang Tong Kai, an 82-year-old patient receiving care at home for conditions including diabetes and fluid retention, exemplifies the program's benefits. His wife, Madam Bey Chin Kiat, expressed relief, stating, "At our advanced age, it’s not convenient to travel to and fro. I’m so happy that they can come to our house instead." Hospital staff provide training to caregivers, supported by regular home visits from healthcare professionals.

Launched after a successful pilot, the MIC@Home program is now accessible at all government restructured hospitals, except the Institute of Mental Health. It has already benefited approximately 152 patients, with another 150 expected by year-end. To address challenges for elderly patients with limited support, public healthcare provider NHG Health has partnered with Thye Hua Kwan Moral Charities. This collaboration provides a team of care staff who offer daily support for five days post-discharge, monitoring vital signs, assisting with medication, and aiding with other care needs.

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We (look) at the diagnosis and what special care that the patients need, and highlight (that) to the care staff assisting the patients at home.

Dr. Boh Toon Li, a senior consultant at Khoo Teckޕ Puat Hospital and lead geriatrician for MIC@Home, noted, "With a familiar home environment with loved ones around them, (patients) can be happier and can make a better recovery.” The program is currently free, with discussions underway for a paid version and expansion to other health clusters. Concurrently, efforts are being made to deliver specialist geriatric care directly into nursing homes as part of the broader strategy to extend healthcare services beyond hospital walls.

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With a familiar home environment with loved ones around them, (patients) can be happier and can make a better recovery.