Integrating Social and Health Care Needs for Singapore’s Elderly

Abstract

The demand for Intermediate-Long Term Care (ILTC) services among Singapore's elderly was expected to rise as the population aged. However policy and service gaps existed between the health care and social service sectors, leading to inadequate follow-up care and at times, readmission to hospitals. The Agency for Integrated Care (AIC) was created in 2008 to ensure that a high standard of ILTC would be affordable and accessible. This case study outlines the circumstances behind the creation and evolution of the AIC from its beginnings as a referral and coordination service, culminating in it assuming the role of a ?national health integrator? for the elderly. It also describes the role of various stakeholders in developing an integrated system of care for the elderly.