Epidemiology and Overview of Disability

Author: Goh Lee Gan
Publication Type:Journal Article
Keywords: People with disabilities, enabling masterplan, early intervention, education, employment, Adult care, cross cutting issues
From:The Singapore Family Physician 2014;40(2):8-11
CountrySingapore
Language:English
Abstract: Persons with disabilities (PWDs) form an integral part of our community. The Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) in Singapore has developed the Enabling Masterplan (EMIC) 2012 – 2016 with the vision of an inclusive society where PWDs are enabled to participate fully. A life course and integrated approach is adopted in caring for such persons with the 4 pillars of early intervention; education and healthy lifestyle; employment; and adult care. Five cross cutting issues need to be addressed: caregiver support and transition management; manpower and technology; Transport; Public education; and accessibility. Family Physicians being the medical practitioners in the frontline of medical care are touchpoints in accessibility to healthcare services and benefit schemes for this group of people.