Addressing sexual health stigma in Singapore through telehealth – Mobihealth News

Singapore’s Approach to Sexual Health: A Report on Quinn’s Telemedicine Services

Introduction

Singapore, a technologically advanced nation in healthcare, still has sections in the health system that have yet to catch up, including sexual health. In this small island nation-state of nearly six million people, sexual and reproductive health remains a topic too sensitive and intimate to be discussed openly. However, access to the internet and the general acceptability of telemedicine in recent years have made Singaporeans more open to discussing these matters.

Quinn: Encouraging Openness and Empowering Patients

A few providers, including over-a-year-old startup Quinn, are working with this perceived openness to encourage and assist Singaporeans in taking charge of their own sexual health. Founded in 2023 under the sexual health-focused private primary care group Republic Healthcare, Quinn provides discreet online services, such as STD testing, consultations on men’s and women’s health, and sensitive conditions including hair loss, acne, and weight management, and medication delivery.

Interview with Deo Jimenez, Digital Marketing Manager of Quinn

Jimenez spoke with Mobihealth News to discuss how telemedicine is helping push more Singaporeans to value their sexual health while maintaining respectful and secure connections.

Q&A

Q. How does Quinn facilitate teleconsultations?

1. The journey begins when a consumer visits the Quinn website and selects products related to their specific health concerns.
2. The platform distinguishes between services that require teleconsultation and those that don’t, guiding patients smoothly to the right option.
3. For services needing a consultation, visitors are prompted to provide essential information and choose an appointment time that suits their schedule.
4. After booking, patients receive a confirmation email with all necessary details, including a secure link to the video call platform.
5. On consultation day, the team sends a reminder to ensure a seamless experience.
6. When the patient joins, they’re welcomed by one of Quinn’s reliable online doctors, each trained to provide personalized, compassionate care.
7. Consultations are tailored in length and scope based on individual needs, allowing for the most effective solutions in real time.

Q. How do Singaporean people perceive sexual health? Are there a lot of Singaporeans seeking assistance or support for sexual concerns?

Based on Quinn’s data and ongoing patient feedback, there is a growing openness among Singaporean nationals towards discussing sexual health. Quinn’s reliable online doctors are trained to create a safe and respectful environment, fostering trust so that patients feel at ease sharing their personal health concerns. Teleconsultations at Quinn provide an ideal solution for those who prefer the comfort of their own home, allowing patients to address sensitive issues on their own terms. This flexibility and discretion help break down long-standing barriers, moving Singaporean attitudes towards sexual health in a more positive, progressive direction.

Q. What are some major challenges and issues around sexual health in Singapore?

Despite increased openness, cultural sensitivity around sexual health remains a factor in Singapore, and advertising regulations add another layer of complexity. As a result, Quinn employs alternative methods like digital outreach and partnerships to reach potential clients, although budget constraints make it challenging to compete with larger, established providers. Additionally, medical teleconsultation companies may struggle with perceived credibility compared to physical doctors, which can hinder patient trust and engagement. Quinn is committed to encouraging openness among patients and connecting them with resources that effectively address these important concerns.

Q. As a telehealth provider, how is Quinn approaching the cultural sensitivity around sexual health among Singaporean consumers?

To market Quinn effectively, especially given the sensitive nature of sexual health, the company tailors its messaging to fit each channel. For traditional media, a “safer” tone is adopted, while more liberal outlets allow a more direct approach. Social media messaging is also optimized to fit platform expectations and audience openness. In Singapore’s multicultural context, Quinn ensures its content is inclusive and non-judgmental, focusing on professional care for all health concerns without stigmatizing. The goal is to destigmatize sexual health by making consultations accessible and discreet, encouraging open conversations. Quinn’s platform is designed to accommodate patients who may be more reserved, offering a discreet and respectful space for health consultations. With the convenience of virtual care, patients can discuss sensitive topics privately, eliminating the need for a clinic visit. Quinn’s commitment to accessibility is further supported by same-day medication delivery for orders placed before 12 noon, and next-day delivery for later orders. Singaporeans have access to expert sexual health support whenever they need it, with complete privacy and convenience.

Q. Given healthcare’s high susceptibility to cyberattacks, how is Quinn maintaining the privacy, security, and integrity of its platform and patient data?

At Quinn, privacy and security are prioritized across every layer of the platform infrastructure. The company establishes protocols that meet industry standards for telehealth. The platform architecture is designed with multi-layered security measures and role-based access controls, ensuring only authorized personnel can access sensitive systems and data. Confidential information is hosted on Quinn’s own server, which is constantly maintained and hardened from cyberattacks. A Ministry of Health-approved CRM system is leveraged, providing encrypted storage to secure patient records, appointments, and health histories. This CRM uses encryption algorithms and password-protected access protocols to safeguard patient information at every touchpoint. By implementing end-to-end encryption on patient data transfers, Quinn maintains a secure connection between patients and doctors. The robust cybersecurity framework empowers patients to seek care with confidence, knowing their information is protected by Quinn.

Q. Any future direction/plan of the company that you may share?

Quinn is focused on strengthening sexual health options in Singapore, addressing the lack of discreet online services for consultations, testing, and medications. With few private telehealth options in this field, Quinn offers Singaporeans a secure, confidential way to manage sensitive health needs from home, supporting a more open, accessible approach to sexual health care. Quinn’s medical partner, DTAP Clinics, established in 2005, has doctors focused on the diagnosis and management of sexual, men’s, and women’s health conditions. This sets Quinn apart from other telehealth providers, which may not have the wealth of experience that comes with Quinn’s medical partner.

Jimenez’s responses have been edited for the sake of brevity and accuracy.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
• SDG 5: Gender Equality
• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• SDG 3.7: By 2030, ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health-care services, including for family planning, information and education, and the integration of reproductive health into national strategies and programs.
• SDG 5.6: Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights as agreed in accordance with the Program of Action of the International Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform for Action and the outcome documents of their review conferences.
• SDG 10.3: Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies, and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies, and action in this regard.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

• Number of individuals accessing online sexual and reproductive health services
• Number of teleconsultations for sexual health issues
• Level of openness among Singaporean nationals towards discussing sexual health
• Number of individuals seeking assistance or support for sexual concerns
• Level of cultural sensitivity around sexual health in Singapore
• Number of individuals using discreet online services for sexual health consultations, testing, and medications

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: mobihealthnews.com