New Policies May Bridge TCM and Western Medicine Under Healthier SG
SINGAPORE – Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) may soon play a more prominent role in Singapore’s Healthier SG initiative, according to Health Minister Ong Ye Kung, who spoke at the Public Free Clinic Society’s 50th anniversary gala on October 27. The government is exploring ways to integrate certain TCM treatments into public healthcare, with subsidies potentially available for patients.
Evidence-Based Integration
Minister Ong emphasized that incorporating TCM should be based on solid clinical evidence and avoid “wholesale inclusion or rejection.” Research findings will guide experiments at public healthcare institutions to ensure effective collaboration between TCM and Western medical practices.
TCM in Healthier SG
Under the Healthier SG preventive healthcare scheme, TCM practitioners could work with general practitioners (GPs). For instance, TCM practitioners may refer patients to GPs for subsidized vaccinations, screenings, and chronic disease management while continuing to offer lifestyle and holistic care.
Accreditation and Collaboration
The Ministry of Health (MOH) and the TCM Practitioners Board are developing an accreditation framework for TCM practitioners, set to launch in 2026, to ensure high competency standards. This framework will determine eligibility for TCM participation in Healthier SG.
Minister Ong also encouraged TCM clinics to collaborate with Western medical institutions, noting that partnerships will require joint proposals on patient management and fee distribution.
Streamlined Licensing for TCM Graduates
The MOH is revising the TCM licensing process to reduce barriers for new practitioners. Graduates from Nanyang Technological University’s Bachelor of Chinese Medicine program will no longer need to take the Singapore TCM Physicians Registration Examination, focusing instead on clinical competencies.
Expanding Preventive Care
With over 1 million residents enrolled in Healthier SG, including one in three aged 40 to 59, the government is allocating $400 million annually to support the initiative. Minister Ong believes integrating TCM practitioners will broaden healthcare outreach and improve preventive care outcomes.
