Singapore faces resource challenges in myopia management

Rising myopia cases increase pressure on healthcare system resources.

With a projected 80% of Singaporean children expected to develop myopia, the nation’s healthcare system is facing growing challenges in managing the high demand for treatment and follow-up care.

“Even though we are very privileged to have a lot of modalities on hand, as well as a very structured system... there’s still quite a bit of challenges in terms of resource allocation, as well as the burden of healthcare,” said Ng Wei Yan, Consultant Ophthalmologist at the Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC).

According to Dr. Ng, increasing awareness of myopia is driving more patients to SNEC for management and treatment, resulting in prolonged follow-up needs for each patient. “This type of patient needs a very prolonged follow-up and treatment period,” Ng explained, noting that resource allocation and reducing waiting times have become critical issues.

SNEC’s myopia management includes comprehensive options such as contact lens services, refraction services, and atropine treatments, which are designed to slow the rate of myopia progression.

“SNEC is working closely together with the schools and health promotion board to try to increase outdoor time,” said Ng. SNEC is also exploring new technologies, such as low-level red light therapy and a digital communication platform, to connect community eye professionals with patients and families, enhancing data access and patient outcomes.