Latest news with #HoKhengTiong
Straits Times
20-07-2025
- Health
- Straits Times
Forum: Subsidised colorectal cancer screening available with family doctors
Find out what's new on ST website and app. We refer to the letters by Mr Ho Kheng Tiong ( End of free test kit distribution can hurt fight against cancer , July 14) and Mr Daniel Yao ( Miscalculation to end distribution of test kits to detect cancer , July 18). The Ministry of Health (MOH) previously worked with the Singapore Cancer Society (SCS) to distribute subsidised faecal immunochemical test (FIT) kits for colorectal cancer screening. It is a good preventive care initiative, but because residents are left on their own to do the test, they may not approach a doctor to discuss eligibility, interpret the results, and obtain advice on the next steps post-screening. Preventive care screening is most effective when paired with the advice and guidance of a family doctor, as part of a long-term patient-doctor relationship. Hence, MOH has shifted to distributing such FIT kits through family doctors to strengthen preventive care and enable better care continuity under Healthier SG. Family doctors can guide individuals along the screening process, from assessing the individual's risk status to explaining the results and promptly arranging for necessary follow-up tests or specialist referrals, if required. SCS remains a strong partner for the ministry to promote cancer prevention and screening. MOH will continue to work with SCS and other community partners to reach out to residents and improve preventive care. MOH strongly encourages eligible Singaporeans to enrol in Healthier SG and go for regular screening. Eligible Healthier SG enrollees can enjoy full subsidies for the FIT kit, screening consultation, and a follow-up consultation, if required. Ruth Lim (Dr) Director, Disease Policy & Strategy Division Ministry of Health
Straits Times
17-07-2025
- Health
- Straits Times
Forum: Singapore Cancer Society remains committed to early cancer detection and support
Find out what's new on ST website and app. We thank Mr Ho Kheng Tiong for his letter, ' End of free test kit distribution can hurt fight against cancer ' (July 14). The Singapore Cancer Society (SCS) is deeply committed to early cancer detection and community outreach. We agree that screening and early detection save lives and appreciate Mr Ho's feedback on the accessibility of faecal immunochemical test (FIT) kits. SCS is proud to have distributed more than one million FIT kits to the community over more than 20 years. The shift away from direct FIT kit distribution by SCS was guided by the Ministry of Health (MOH) as part of the broader national shift under its Healthier SG strategy. While SCS no longer distributes FIT kits, we remain a steadfast partner in the nation's fight against cancer. We continue to offer other types of screening such as cervical screening and mammograms at no cost to eligible individuals at our SCS Clinic @ Bishan. In addition, SCS actively supports the community by raising awareness on the importance of cancer screening, reaching out through free health talks and community programmes, and helping individuals understand available cancer screening options. As a longstanding partner in Singapore's cancer prevention and care journey for over 60 years, we remain committed to working closely with MOH and our healthcare and community partners to ensure that cancer screenings remain accessible and available to all in Singapore. Cancer screening is important and saves lives. If you or someone you know is unsure where to start, please contact us via our website or call our helpline (1800-727-3333). We will be glad to help. Tan Kwang Cheak CEO, Singapore Cancer Society Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. Singapore Driverless bus in Sentosa gets green light to run without safety officer in first for S'pore World US strikes destroyed only one of three Iranian nuclear sites, says new report Business 5 things to know about Kuok Hui Kwong, tycoon Robert Kuok's daughter and Shangri-La Asia head honcho Asia Air India probe into Boeing 787 fuel control switches finds no issues Singapore Man charged over manufacturing DIY Kpods at Yishun home; first such case in Singapore Singapore Sex first, then you can sell my flat: Women property agents fend off indecent proposals and harassment Singapore Two women jailed for submitting fake university certificates to MOM for employment passes Singapore Fatal abuse of Myanmar maid in Bishan: Traffic Police officer sentenced to 10 years' jail
