The Singapore Family Physician

Back to issue Vol 50 No. 9 - Lifestyle Medicine: Prescriptions For Better Health

The Role of Health and Wellness Coaching in Healthier SG, Primary Care and Preventive Medicine

Susan Tan
The Singapore Family Physician Vol 50 No 9 - Lifestyle Medicine: Prescriptions For Better Health
27 September 2024
0377-5305
Increasing international evidence shows that well-designed lifestyle health coaching programmes are crucial in combating preventable non-communicable chronic diseases. In response to rising chronic diseases and disability-adjusted life years brought about by the ageing population, Ministry of Health announced Healthier SG in 2022, with enrolment of residents started in 2023. Healthier SG signifies the shift from reactive sick care to preventive care through reshaping lifestyles and health-seeking behaviours of the Singapore population, with the aim to extend health spans, improve quality of life while reducing the burdens on loved ones, the healthcare system, and ultimately, healthcare costs. Lifestyles and health-seeking behaviours are shaped by numerous factors including social norms, cultural influences, education background, occupations, levels of health literacy, access to resources. The task of reshaping these behaviours is complex and has been assigned to primary care stakeholders and community partners. Many involved are unfamiliar with the specifics of lifestyle prescriptions and the role of health coaching in successfully changing behaviours. A shared understanding of the role of health coaching in reshaping lifestyles and health-seeking behaviours is essential to support those involved. Access to quality health coaching resources, including a registry of competent health and wellness coaches, can significantly reduce the struggle for those tackling this critical task, facilitating the effective transformation of lifestyles and health-seeking behaviours across Singapore.