Online engagement via social media tools has been regarded as a good example for interacting with citizens. In this connection, Singapore's Ministry of Health (MOH) in its unique initiative to connect with citizens on health issues has set an example of using social media to engage with citizens, especially on issues related to healthcare policy making. Increasing expectation of the citizens of Singapore for more transparency and even some form of ownership in formulating health policies has proved to be the driving force towards the initiative. Active engagement of the public to feedback and discuss healthcare policies is the prime focus of the portal. The Health Minister blogs personally about healthcare issues of topical interest, as well as challenges in policy making. The blog has attracted lot of visitors. New media tools e.g. Blog, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube facilitate Health Ministry of Singapore to interact with the citizens of Singapore. It gives the citizens an opportunity to engage them on healthcare issues. On the other hand, it also allows the ministry to elucidate their thinking-process to the citizens. Explaining policy underlying principle to the citizens is another concept behind this portal.
International e-Gov Update
Singapore: Health Ministry Connects with Citizens on Social Media
From July 2010 • Informatics, National Informatics Centre