Members of the public who need COVID-19 testing or a review of acute respiratory infection symptoms can visit the Public Health Preparedness Clinics for further assessment.
Stable patients are referred to home recovery programmes, such as NUHS@Home, SGH@Home and Yishun Health Medical Home, or community sites such as COVID-19 treatment facilities as appropriate.
“There are dedicated facilities and manpower to support the care of COVID-19 patients,” the statement said.
Hospitals have set aside beds that can be converted to isolation beds, and holding facilities for suspect cases pending their results.
Alternative arrangements, where clinically appropriate, are also offered. These include teleconsultation, telerehabilitation, telemonitoring, remote prescribing, and delivery of medication.
STAFF WELFARE
“As part of the national efforts against COVID-19, our healthcare team has held the line for Singapore with significant personal sacrifices,” said the chairmen.
“While we work hard to provide care for our patients, we recognise our staff need time to rest and recharge.”
Besides the heavy workload and long working hours, a significant part of staff burnout is also due to abuse, they added.
“We take a zero-tolerance stance towards deliberate abuse against our staff and will take action to protect them,” they added.
“There are protocols in place that assure staff they can safely seek redress from abuse they may face from patients and caregivers, and get the support they need. We seek the public’s patience and cooperation to help create a safe environment for our staff to do their best to care for patients.”
Staffing needs are managed through advance planning and staggered rostering of leave. This ensures that staff are able to go on leave by turns, or return to their home country.
“Given the prolonged duration of this pandemic, we have stepped up efforts to monitor the well-being of our staff, including their psychological health,” the chairmen said.
“We provide mental health support where required, and encourage staff to support and look out for one another.”