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Written Reply by Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen to Parliamentary Question on the Ratio of Psychiatrists and Case Managers to National Servicemen

15 July 2015

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Mrs Lina Chiam: To ask the Minister for Defence (a) what is the current ratio of psychiatrists and case managers to national servicemen (per 100 servicemen) respectively; and (b) since 2005, how many national servicemen have been exempted from their NS duties because of mental health disorders. 

Dr Ng Eng Hen: Over the last 10 years, about 400 pre-enlistees with severe mental health disorders have been exempted from NS annually.

The SAF has a team of over 1,200 psychiatrists, counsellors, para-counsellors and psychologists who deal with issues related to mental health. The ratio of psychiatrists within the SAF is more than twice that of the national population. In addition, the SAF draws upon the resources in our national healthcare system, including the Institute of Mental Health and psychiatric departments in restructured hospitals.

In consultation with the SAF Psychiatry Specialist Advisory Board, comprising senior psychiatrists from public hospitals, we will ensure that our national servicemen receive good care during NS.

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