Opportunities abound for healthcare players

EARLIER this month, Singapore's Minister for Communications and Information announced that a further S$300 million is to be allocated to the funding of digital innovation as part of the government's drive to transform the economy through the application of digital technologies.

Singapore is nothing if not progressive and this latest funding commitment represents just part of an impressive government agenda that aims to see all industries, businesses, workers and citizens digitally connected and equipped with the digital skills needed to improve productivity and enrich their lives.

The healthcare industry globally has long been a laggard in embracing "digital transformation". Yet, in Singapore and across Asean, the application of new digital and automation technologies is at last beginning to transform the sector, offering the potential to change the way medicines are manufactured, disrupting traditional business models and, most importantly, expanding access to healthcare to regions and previously under-served populations.