What capacity adjustments are hospitals making for the new wave?

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Singaporean Public Hospitals Adjusting Capacity for Upcoming Covid-19 Wave

Singapore's public hospitals are actively preparing for a potential fifth wave of Covid-19, anticipated as early as July, by making specific adjustments to both bed capacity and manpower. While hospitals are increasing their preparedness, there are currently no plans to freeze leave for healthcare workers, with a focus on adapting staffing needs as the situation evolves.
Increased Bed and Facility Allocation

Hospitals are proactively setting aside and reconfiguring existing beds to accommodate an anticipated influx of Covid-19 patients. The National University Health System (NUHS) group, for instance, has designated existing beds that can be converted into isolation facilities. Furthermore, NUHS has established additional holding areas for individuals suspected of having Covid-19 while awaiting their test results, ensuring dedicated spaces for different stages of patient management.
Manpower Adaptation and Leave Policies

Public hospitals are preparing to manage their manpower resources effectively for the potential surge. SingHealth, a major healthcare group, stated that its supervisors consider the need for adequate staffing for routine services and sufficient manpower reserves to manage surges when approving leave. This approach aims to maintain operational capacity while allowing for staff well-being. There are no current plans to freeze leave for healthcare workers across the public hospital system.
Reconfiguration of Wards and Capacity Optimisation

Healthcare groups are employing strategies to optimise their existing infrastructure. SingHealth plans to reconfigure existing wards to accommodate Covid-19 patients and is utilising historical data to predict and optimise bed capacity. This data-driven approach allows for a more informed and efficient allocation of resources in response to evolving patient numbers and needs.
Diversification of Healthcare Services

Beyond physical bed capacity, hospitals are also expanding the availability of remote healthcare services. NUHS is offering alternative arrangements such as teleconsultation, tele-rehabilitation, and tele-monitoring. Additionally, remote prescribing and medication delivery services are being provided, aiming to manage patient care effectively while potentially reducing the burden on in-person facilities.

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What capacity adjustments are hospitals making for the new wave?

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