Healthcare in the future year 2060
Tags: healthcare, singapore, future, thinking
Published: 2023-02-25 14:18:26

Imagine you are a scientist that has the ability to time-travel to the year 2060, 37 years into the future. You make a trip into one possible future and see a fictitious dialogue between a doctor and a patient in the Singapore healthcare system.

Doctor: "Alamak, Uncle Tan! You look more hiao than usual today. How are you feeling?"

Patient: "Aiya, Doctor, you know lah, I'm feeling much better. I heard that the healthcare system in Singapore is one of the most advanced in the world now today in 2060. It is providing high-quality, affordable healthcare, not only to Singapore citizens, but also globally to everyone in the world. It maintains high-quality care while expanding globally and reducing costs. True or not?"

Doctor: "Eh, Uncle Tan, of course, it is true lah! The government has continued to invest heavily in healthcare infrastructure, research, and education, resulting in a highly skilled and competent workforce of healthcare professionals. We have the most shiok healthcare system in the world!"

Patient: "Wah, really ah? That is major breakthrough. Tell me more about global expansion?"

Doctor: "Certainly. Singapore has established a reputation as a global leader in healthcare innovation and remote medical delivery. This is achieved through the continued investment in healthcare infrastructure, education, and research, resulting in a highly skilled and experienced workforce that is able to deliver world-class care at lower costs. Additionally, the country could have forged strong partnerships with other countries, providing consulting services and sharing expertise to develop healthcare systems in other parts of the world."

Patient: "That's truly amazing. I worry about accessibility and affordability. Is it expensive or not?”

Doctor: “Don't worry lah, Uncle Tan. Healthcare is cheaper than a cup of kopi-o. Advances in technology have helped to reduce the cost significantly. The use of artificial intelligence, robotics, and telemedicine has streamlined processes and improved efficiency, allowing healthcare providers to deliver high-quality care at lower costs. Additionally, advancements in medical research could have led to the development of new treatments and drugs that are more affordable and accessible to patients.”

Patient: “Oh my gosh! I like the sound of that! Can everyone benefit from these advancements?"

Doctor: "Singapore embraced a more patient-centred approach to healthcare, with shifted towards a more preventative and holistic approach, and a greater emphasis on promoting healthy lifestyles. This approach could lead to improved patient outcomes, increased patient satisfaction, and reduced healthcare costs over time."

Patient: "It sounds like the healthcare in Singapore in 2060 looks very promising. I am glad I can benefit from these advancements today. And I can have a long life to celebrate my 100-year-old birthday."

Doctor: "Absolutely, Mr Tan. Our goal is always to provide the best possible care to our patients. The best-case scenario for Singapore's healthcare system in 2060 with lower costs and global expansion could be characterized by advanced technology, personalized care, a focus on prevention, and a high level of accessibility and affordability for patients worldwide. Remember to stay healthy and happy at a low cost. Jia you!"