Singapore's Ministry of Health (MOH) is set to increase its focus on women's health, with plans to incorporate bone density tests into the Healthier SG initiative. Health Minister Ong Ye Kung stated that these measures aim to help women manage osteoporosis, a condition particularly affecting menopausal women.
Minister Ong noted that women's health requires special attention due to historical research biases and unique health challenges, including breast cancer, hormonal cycles, and menopause. He also acknowledged the added stress women face as caregivers.
These initiatives are part of broader policy breakthroughs announced during the ministry's budget debate. Other advancements include raising MediSave withdrawal limits and utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) for chronic disease management. The MOH is also exploring coverage for preventive surgery under MediShield Life, a significant departure from past policy, enabled by advancements in genomics and AI.
The MediSave scheme's objectives are also evolving, expanding from solely covering emergencies to supporting preventive care and chronic disease management. The MOH aims to leverage technology like AI and genomics to create a personalized, predictive, and preventive healthcare system.