A Win-Win for Migrant Workers and Employers: Enhancing Healthcare Access and Support
In a significant move, Singapore is taking steps to improve the healthcare and overall well-being of migrant workers. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has announced plans to ensure that most migrant workers have a clinic within a 2km radius of their residence. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to bolster the health and happiness of these workers, with changes set to roll out over the next few years.
The Primary Care Plan (PCP), a healthcare scheme covering many migrant workers, is at the heart of these changes. Minister Tan See Leng highlighted that the scheme will expand, leading to shorter travel times for workers and quicker access to medical assistance when needed. This, in turn, will minimize disruptions to their work and rest routines.
Speaking at the International Migrants Day event at D'Marquee, Downtown East, Dr. Tan emphasized the development of a centralized online portal. This portal will assist employers in enrolling their workers in the PCP, which is mandatory for migrant workers in specific sectors and those residing in larger dormitories.
Currently, PCP clinics are spread across six geographic zones. However, by 2027, these zones will be consolidated into four larger ones. This consolidation will allow anchor operators to serve a larger worker population, achieving better economies of scale and keeping annual rates reasonable for employers.
Dr. Tan emphasized, "This reduction in zones will not compromise our workers' accessibility to care. It's a win-win situation for everyone involved." He further explained that by increasing the number of clinics closer to workers' residences, better access will be provided while keeping costs manageable for employers.
In addition to the expansion of clinics, the pricing for physical and telemedicine consultations under the PCP will be standardized at $5. This change considers the increased costs associated with telemedicine delivery.
These improvements will be implemented when new PCP anchor operators are appointed from April 2027. The scheme, launched in 2022, offers a range of primary medical care services, including unlimited consultations for acute and chronic conditions, annual health screenings, telemedicine, and medication delivery, all at prices ranging from $108 to $138 per worker per year.
Dr. Tan noted that the scheme has been well-received by migrant workers, with nine out of ten workers finding clinic consultations affordable and accessible. To further enhance social support for workers, MOM and the Migrant Workers' Centre (MWC) are merging two volunteer schemes.
Currently, about 2,000 migrant workers volunteer through MOM's Friends of ACE (FACE) program and as ambassadors at the MWC. These volunteers engage with their peers, provide feedback on various issues, and work with partners to strengthen social support within the migrant community.
In 2026, these two groups will unite as one unified program. This merger will enable MOM and MWC to manage and deploy volunteers more efficiently and reach out to a larger number of workers.
Under the new program, a group of 'Star Ambassadors' will be identified. These ambassadors will take on specialized roles, serving as role models within their communities. Some will assume leadership positions in dormitories, providing support to fellow residents, while others will assist community partners in organizing recreational and sporting activities.
Dr. Tan expressed his enthusiasm for more migrant workers to join this meaningful initiative, encouraging them to contribute based on their interests and abilities.
Furthermore, plans are underway to enhance the diversity of offerings to support migrant workers' social and recreational needs. A new consortium, led by Hope Initiative Alliance and the Dormitory Association of Singapore, will start operations at Kaki Bukit and Woodlands recreation centers in the coming months. These centers will offer refreshed facilities and a wider range of initiatives, including sports, entertainment, cultural performances, and training programs such as English and digital literacy classes.
In the area of housing, Dr. Tan announced that the first government-built and -owned dormitory, known as NESST Tukang, welcomed its first residents last week, ahead of its official opening in January 2026. Almost 400 residents have already moved in, and the dormitory in Jurong, designed for a maximum capacity of 2,400 workers, incorporates features such as improved ventilation, privacy corners, and round-the-clock food access, all based on workers' preferences.
"This Tukang dormitory sets a new standard for safety, comfort, and dignity. We hope it inspires the entire industry to raise their standards, benefiting more workers in the future," Dr. Tan said.
Singapore has made remarkable progress in housing, healthcare, and recreation since 2021, when MOM launched a roadmap to build a more resilient migrant workforce in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic brought to light issues such as cramped dormitory conditions and healthcare provision for migrant workers.
Dr. Tan emphasized that this progress is not solely due to government efforts but also a result of a collective partnership with various stakeholders. He added that International Migrants Day this year is part of SG60, celebrating Singapore's 60 years of independence. It's a time to recognize and appreciate the contributions of the migrant community and their vital role in Singapore's development and success.
On behalf of all Singaporeans, Dr. Tan extended his gratitude to migrant workers, including migrant domestic workers, for their invaluable contributions to building and caring for Singapore and its people.
