The Ministry of Health (MOH) will issue 1 million masks to private clinics, including general practitioners and specialists, announced Minister of Health Gan Kim Yong at a press conference on 12 February 2020.
According to Mr Gan, some private doctors and specialists have given feedback that they are concerned about the supply of masks for them to continue to look after patients.
“I would like to take this opportunity to assure them that they will get the supplies they need because they are part of our team. We will put in place all the necessary supplies to ensure that they can continue to take care of our patients,” said Mr Gan.
He added that it is essential for Singapore to work together as a team, as a community, and as a nation to overcome the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (Covid-19).
The Health Minister also took the opportunity to appeal to Singaporeans to support healthcare workers such as nurses, doctors and healthcare professionals instead of shunning them.
“I understand that Singaporeans are concerned, and many are anxious. Some are even wary of our healthcare workers and shun our nurses, doctors and healthcare professionals. Let’s come together to show our support for them and to support their work so that they can continue to take care of our patients, our families and our loved ones.
“Sometimes, a kind word or one greeting can go a long way to make them feel appreciated and let them continue their efforts,” said Mr Gan.
Elaborating on ways on how frontline workers will be supported, Minister for Social and Family Development Desmond Lee said that the Government will tap on the Courage Fund to help healthcare workers who may need additional support.
The Courage Fund was first started during the SARS crisis in 2003. According to Mr Lee, the Fund currently has $300,000 in donations through CapitaLand Hope Foundation, on top of $250,000 raised through the President’s Challenge.
The National Council of Social Service and Community Chest will facilitate the disbursement of the funds, added Mr Lee.
The Government will also set up a centralised platform to help convene various ground-up efforts, added Mr Lee. The platform, called SG United, will enable group-, partner- and also Government-led initiatives to be publicised.
To date, six more cases have been discharged from the hospital, making it 15 cases to have fully recovered from Covid-19.
However, there were three more confirmed cases as at press time. According to MOH, the three new cases are in stable condition. There are currently 35 confirmed cases who are still in the hospital.
Mr Gan said that while most cases will recover, a small number may succumb to the virus infection and Singapore has to be prepared for the worst.
