Technology has emerged as a key enabler in Singapore’s strategy to manage rising healthcare demand amid population ageing. The Ministry of Health (MOH) has said that it will drive technology adoption with a focus on impactful systemwide use-cases, while healthcare clusters are developing various tech solutions to optimise resources, boost preventive care and manage care needs for our ageing population.
For example, GERI worked with NHG Health and Tan Tock Seng Hospital to evaluate a predictive algorithm to identify patients with advanced dementia who are at risk of mortality for early referrals to supportive care. We found that for sustainable implementation, the tool had to be well-integrated into the hospital’s existing clinical workflow, including its electronic medical records (EMR) system.
What can innovators and implementers do to build digital enablers that work well and age well in different settings?
1.Create evidence-informed and contexualised innovations.2
2.Co-develop with stakeholders.
3.Harness multidisciplinary inputs for a holistic picture on older adults’ health needs.
4.Account for cost.
5.Leverage social networks and community partnerships.