
Value-Based Care and Service Design
The Value-Based Care (VBC) approach focuses on improving the value of care provided to patients (i.e. improved outcomes while optimising cost). The initiatives/programmes in TTSH shown below are some key examples of services or projects that have used a value-based approach in their planning and implementation. These programmes can be complementary to one another or even applied together, depending on the specific requirements of each condition.
Aims of ERAS® for Patients
Implemented in Singapore at Tan Tock Seng Hospital in 2016, ERAS® is a surgical care program that improves recovery through an evidence-based, multidisciplinary approach.

Faster functional recovery

Decrease post-surgical complications

Decrease hospital length of stay

Decrease in readmission rates
ERAS® Colorectal Surgery
The implementation of ERAS® protocol for Colorectal Surgeries at Tan Tock Seng Hospital allows patients to experience faster functional recovery as ERAS® promotes early mobilization and reduces post-surgery complications.
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| Post Surgery |
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What does this mean for our patients?
With compliance with ERAS® protocol, patients can experience accelerated recovery, shorter average length of stay, and lower likelihood of readmission. Hence, benefiting patients financially as it contributes to a lower hospital bill.
By taking part in the ERAS® programme, patients take an active role in their recovery and help the healthcare team care for other patients who require higher-level support.
Care that Puts Patients First
Choosing Wisely is a global movement launched in the United States in 2012 and actively adopted by UK, Australia and Canada to support better conversations between patients and healthcare teams about care that is truly needed.
At Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH), Choosing Wisely helps ensure that every test, treatment, or procedure that patients receive is appropriate, evidence‑based, and value adds to patients’ health.
What does this mean for our patients?
Less that’s unnecessary. More of what matters.
Care at TTSH is guided by established clinical standards and tailored to patients’ needs. In some situations, certain tests or treatments may not add meaningful benefit.
We adopt a prudent approach in minimising waste and managing increasing healthcare costs, aiming to moderate patient bill without compromising care quality. By optimising resources and costs of care delivery, we help to lower patient expenses while maintaining financial sustainability.
Choosing Wisely helps the care team focus on what supports patients’ health most—so our patients receive the right care, at the right time, for the right reasons.
Delivering the Right Care
At TTSH, the healthcare teams carefully consider each care decision for the needs of our patients, and to support timely access to care for the wider community. By avoiding tests or treatments that are unlikely to benefit patients, we help ensure care provided is effective and cost-conscious.
We do this by thoughtfully reviewing care decisions across four key areas, establishing a foundation for future improvement.
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Appropriate Therapy Referrals
Referring patients for therapy only when they are beneficial, so patients receive suitable care without unnecessary details.
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Responsible Use of Antibiotics
Preventing unnecessary side effects and antibiotic resistance to patientd/
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Ordering only Essential Diagnostics
Avoiding investigations that do not add value to care. Optimising resources and reducing patient bill.
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Safe and Appropriate Medication Prescription
Ensuring the medication provided is best suited for patients and in optimal dosages.
By embedding Choosing Wisely as a shared mindset, TTSH remains committed to delivering high-value care that is effective, appropriate and mindful of patients’ health and finances.
Choosing Care Wisely Together
As a patient, you play an important role in your care journey.
You are encouraged to:
- Ask questions
- Understand your options
Discuss what matters most to you with your healthcare team
These conversations help ensure your care plan reflects your needs, values, and preferences.
These conversations ensure your care plan reflects your needs and priorities. By stewarding your own care, you also help the system work better—so patients who need urgent or complex care can access services in a timely manner.

