​Patients with well-controlled chronic conditions may no longer need to queue to see the doctor every time for health assessment, thanks to SEEK™ MyHealth Kiosk

A community health initiative led by SingHealth Polyclinic (SHP) and Eastern Health Alliance, SEEK™ MyHealth Kiosk takes physiologic measurements of patients such as their blood pressure, height and weight. A customised questionnaire and patients’ lab test results then help to further assess their health.

The kiosk, used by 100 recruited patients, was piloted at Bedok Polyclinic from  March to November 2015. The eventual aim is that if the patients’ condition is stable, they can collect their medication immediately. Patients whose results reveal health issues are referred to a nurse or doctor.

For the purpose of the pilot, results are checked by nurses to ensure accuracy. Said Juliana Bahadin, Clinic Director of SHP-Bedok, “This would mean saving time from waiting at the clinic to see the doctor or nurse. Many are receptive to using the kiosk and have given us the thumbs-up for its user-friendliness.”

Featuring a user-centred design, the kiosk was co-created with more than 50 elderly residents and patients. For example, the team learnt through prototyping that  patients tend to place their palms face down instead of face-up when measuring their blood pressure. By placing audio and visual cues strategically, the chances of inaccurate palm and arm placement are reduced. 

“About 62 per cent of patients who visit our polyclinic do so for chronic diseases. SEEK™ MyHealth Kiosk complements the care we provide them and it gives our team more time to manage patients with more complex conditions,” added Juliana.

Another kiosk is available at Thye Hua Kwan Moral Charities (THKMC) Bedok Radiance Senior Activity centre. Since September, about 300 residents have used the kiosk at their own convenience to track their health status.

Four more kiosks will be launched at various locations in 2016.