Hypertension, diabetes and lipid disorders (e.g. high blood cholesterol) are some of the common chronic conditions affecting Singaporeans today. As chronic conditions are generally progressive and require long-term care and medication, it is important that patients manage them well through regular follow-ups and good lifestyle habits, to lower risks of complications, lessen medical bills, reduce stress and improve quality of life.
To cover some of the cost for the treatment of chronic conditions, all CHAS, Pioneer Generation (PG) and Merdeka Generation (MG) cardholders can receive subsidies for
selected chronic conditions at their nearest CHAS GP clinic. Please refer to
this table for the amount of subsidy patients can get according to their CHAS tier.
Primary Care Network (PCN) clinics
The Primary Care Network (PCN) refers to a network of GPs supported by nurses and care coordinators who aim to provide holistic and coordinated care for patients with chronic conditions.
This team-based care approach ensures patients are better cared for in the community. Nurses will assist to advise patients on the management of their chronic conditions and lifestyle modifications, while care coordinators will monitor the care plan for patients, e.g. to ensure that patient with diabetes are being scheduled for appropriate follow ups for DFS and DRP.
For more information and list of participating clinics under the respective PCNs, please click here.
Subsidised rates for healthcare services
Patients who seek treatment for chronic conditions at CHAS GP clinics can also receive subsidised rates for healthcare services such as Diabetic Foot Screening, Diabetic Retinal Photography and nurse counselling at Community Health Centres (CHC) and Primary Care Network (PCN) clinics.
By utilising these services, patients will be better supported by a care team comprising of their own GP, nurses and care coordinators, to better manage their conditions. Patients may speak to their GPs to be assessed and referred to these services.
- Diabetic Foot Screening (DFS)
Patients with diabetes are at risk of developing diabetic foot complications such as nerve damage and extremely poor bloody circulation. Patients are encouraged to go for DFS at least once a year to detect complications, seek early treatment and reduce the risk of leg amputations.
- Diabetic Retinal Photography (DRP)
Diabetes can damage the blood vessels in the eyes, especially if the condition is poorly managed. Patients are encouraged to go for DRP at least once a year to detect early signs of eye damage and prevent complications that can lead to vision loss or blindness.
To learn more about DFS and DRP, please click here.
- Nurse counselling
Patients who are newly diagnosed or have difficulties managing their chronic conditions, are encouraged to go for nurse counselling. Working together with the patient’s GP, the nurse counsellor will support patients in their journey to better manage their condition through personalised care plans which include lifestyle tips and dietary modifications.
To learn more about nurse counselling, please click here.
Community Health Centres (CHCs)CHCs provide additional health services to support GPs in caring for patients with chronic conditions. CHCs are conveniently located within the neighbourhood to allow patients and GPs easy access to services such as DFS, DRP and nurse counselling.
For better coordination and continuity of care, the patient must be referred by his/her GP, who will make appointments with the nearest CHC. The patient will then do the necessary tests at the CHC and his/her test results will be sent to the referring GP for their review and follow-up with patient.
How It Works
Patient
Patient sees a GP
GP
GP identifies needs and refers patient to CHC
CHC
CHC does required tests and sends results back to referring GP
GP
GP reviews results and follows up with patient
For more information and locations of CHCs, please click here.
