Health Minister explores integrating TCM with Western medicine in Singapore’s preventive healthcare scheme.
Health Minister Ong Ye Kung expressed on October 27 that Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) may be integrated into Singapore’s Healthier SG initiative, with TCM practitioners potentially partnering with Western doctors. He emphasized the importance of a selective, evidence-based approach in including TCM treatments in public healthcare settings.
Speaking at the Public Free Clinic Society’s 50th anniversary event, Mr. Ong noted that incorporating TCM into Healthier SG could encourage more people to engage with the preventive healthcare program, which already has over one million enrollees. TCM’s focus on holistic and preventive care aligns with Healthier SG’s objectives, and Mr. Ong suggested a collaborative model where patients could receive both Western medical services and TCM care.
He highlighted the need for consultation between TCM and Western medical practitioners on collaborative models. Additionally, the Ministry of Health (MOH) is developing an accreditation framework for TCM practitioners, which could enable their participation in the expanded Healthier SG program starting in 2026.
