As the Chinese New Year festivities approach, Singaporeans can rest assured knowing that over 1,000 general practitioner (GP) clinics will be open to provide care during this period. The Ministry of Health (MOH) announced on Monday (Jan 27) that a total of 1,115 GP clinics will be operating at various times throughout the holiday season.
Accessible Care Around the Clock
Among these clinics, 17 will be open 24 hours a day from Jan 28 to Jan 30, ensuring that individuals can seek medical attention at any time of the day or night. The MOH emphasized the importance of seeking care for minor conditions at GP clinics or 24-hour clinics, especially for children who may not be feeling well during the festive period.
It is recommended that members of the public make appointments with clinics or call ahead before visiting, to ensure that they receive timely care. For urgent but non-life-threatening conditions, individuals can also visit the urgent care centers at Alexandria Hospital, Admiralty, and Bukit Panjang, where they can receive prompt medical attention.
Emergency Services Guidelines
In cases of serious or life-threatening emergencies, such as chest pain, breathlessness, or uncontrollable bleeding, individuals are advised to seek medical treatment at a hospital’s accident and emergency department. The MOH stressed the importance of reserving the 995 Emergency Medical Services for those experiencing true emergencies, to ensure that swift conveyance is available for those in critical need.
As the Chinese New Year celebrations kick off, the MOH’s initiative to have over 1,000 GP clinics open for care demonstrates a commitment to providing accessible healthcare services to the public. By following these guidelines and utilizing the available resources, individuals can enjoy a safe and healthy holiday season.
