Promotional Prospects of Healthcare Workers

16 Aug 2010

Question No:  232   

Question

Name of the Person: Mr Seah Kian Peng

To ask the Minister for Health what is the Government's stand on the idea of using an employee's weight as a criterion for staff promotion in Government and restructured hospitals when all other factors are equal. 

Question No:  232   

Question

Name of the Person: Dr Lam Pin Min

To ask the Minister for Health if the Body Mass Index (BMI) is a necessary criterion in assessing healthcare workers' promotional prospect and whether it will eventually be used in determining the employability of healthcare workers in the future.

Reply

Reply From MOH

A media report has not correctly conveyed one hospital CEO’s view on this subject, contributing to a misunderstanding that the hospital intends not to promote obese staff.  The CEO has since clarified his stand through the media, denying such an intent.  His message was that as healthcare workers, we should be good role models for our patients and actively adopt a healthy lifestyle, including making efforts to exercise and keep fit.

My Ministry does not condone discrimination in the workplace.  Staff promotion has always been based on actual work performance and potential.  It is not based on body shape or size.  Body weight is not the issue but fitness to work is, as physical fitness does impact work performance.

That is why before hiring staff, the restructured hospitals will subject potential recruits to a thorough medical examination.  Healthcare jobs are physically demanding and employees need to be physically fit in order to carry out their duties effectively.  I believe most if not all other employers do the same.

Let me take this opportunity to remind all to take healthy lifestyle seriously.  Health is the foundation for a happy and fulfilling life.  Let’s all do our best to stay well and keep fit.  Healthy lifestyle does not guarantee that we will not fall sick, as shown by my recent hospitalization.  But it improves our odds.

Sedentary lifestyle and junk food are damaging our health.  It is a serious global health issue.  Please join my Ministry in promoting healthy lifestyle among Singaporeans.  I know the NTUC leadership, including Mr Seah Kian Peng, supports this strongly.  Healthcare professionals, including Dr Lam Pin Min, are championing this movement.  Employers, in particular, have a strong interest to provide a supportive environment for their staff to embrace a healthy lifestyle.