COVID-19 Virtual Ward Helped Singaporean Health System Save Over 3,500 Bed Days

Even before COVID-19 placed a significant strain on hospitals in Singapore, health systems such as the National University Health System were looking at ways to move care away from the hospital and into a person's home or community. This shift would help the country better manage an ageing population and increasing demand for hospital beds. 

Singapore experienced a surge in COVID-19 cases between September and December last year, resulting in an increase in hospital bed occupancy nationwide. Many patients also expressed their preference to stay at home but due to their age, comorbidities or vaccination status, needed to be hospitalised or placed in an institution.

Since the virtual ward was set up in September 2021, the health system has saved more than 3,500 bed days. Over 500 patients have been cared for to date.