Snaking queues are always a problem at local polyclinics, despite there being 18 of them spread out across the island. Some people may be there to seek treatment for a serious illness, while others just need an MC for whatever reason. But for the chronically ill, there’s now a way to skip the queues without having to get up early to wait in line.
The National Healthcare Group Polyclinics (NHGP) and National Healthcare Group Pharmacy (NHGPh) have announced that patients who suffer from chronic conditions and have a valid doctor’s prescription can collect their medication at any time from lockers at 34 7-Eleven stores across the island, reported The Straits Times.
This will add on to the current service of visiting any of the nine NHG polyclinics or choosing the home delivery option to get the meds.
Since the launch of this new system in March, more than 10 patients have tried out the service, said NHGP. But the new option isn’t widely known yet, so the healthcare group is seeking to promote it to patients who are unaware.
According to Channel NewsAsia, eligible patients can submit their medication order through an app or website, or call NHGPh’s contact centre at 6355-3000. The service costs $4, which is about the same amount as the home delivery option, and payment is accepted via Internet banking, AXS machines or at any of the NHG polyclinics.
After verification, the specified medication will be packed by pharmacists in tamper-proof bags and delivered to the locker location within three days. An SMS and a one-time personal identification number will be sent to patients, who will have to collect their meds within 48 hours.
“Our patients can be assured that all medication is packed safely and securely. We also work with our vendor to ensure their confidential details are not compromised during delivery,” said Chan Soo Chung, executive director of NHGP.
NHGP added that it aims to launch more locker services islandwide. Check out the list of locker and 7-Eleven locations here.
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