Empowering the Workforce: Strengthening Capabilities for Crisis Response
Care Continuum
National Healthcare Innovation and Productivity Medals
National Healthcare Group
27 January 2026
To establish a standardised crisis management approach to improve crisis response capabilities and enhance mental health. The standardised crisis management approach has enhanced crisis response efficiency and minimized downtime, contributing to improved.
Year Submitted: 2025
Published Date: 27 January 2026
Tags: Care Continuum, Mental Health, Population Health
About this Content
Aims
To establish a standardised crisis management approach to improve crisis response capabilities and enhance mental health support in Singapore.
Background
Singapore has faced a significant escalation in mental health challenges over the past two decades, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Rising suicide rates and increased mental illness prevalence underscore the urgent need for robust crisis intervention.
Methods
Implementation of the Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) framework, training of IMH staff and non-IMH staff, and conducting case studies to assess the effectiveness of crisis response.
Results
Significant productivity gains and cost-effectiveness were achieved. The initiative boosted overall productivity in crisis management and diversified the pool of individuals ready to respond to crises
Conclusion
The standardised crisis management approach has enhanced crisis response efficiency and minimized downtime, contributing to improved mental health support in Singapore.
Lessons Learnt
Effective communication, stakeholder feedback incorporation, and addressing resistance were crucial for program acceptance. Continuous engagement and resource allocation for ongoing support are necessary.
Keywords
Mental Health, Training, Crisis Management
Innovators' Details
Innovators' Details
Healthcare Cluster(s) | National Healthcare Group |
Organization(s) Involved | Institute of Mental Health |
Platform(s) | National Healthcare Innovation and Productivity Medals |
Healthcare Professional Group(s) | Allied Health, Healthcare Administration |
Applicable Specialty or Discipline | Allied Health, Medical Social Workers, Psychology, Healthcare Administrators, Operations |
Project Lead(s) | Lee Cheng |
Project Member(s) | Christine Tan Siew Mei |
Connect with this contributor!
Pamela Toh - Pamela_toh@imh.com.sg