On World Hepatitis Day, HCSA Community Services and Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH) came together to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
This MoU is an intent to eliminate Hepatitis C (HCV) among one of Singapore’s most marginalised populations: former drug offenders.
The main campaign being launched is the ‘Educate, Test, Treat! (ETT)’ Initiative, a programme launched in 2022 with the backing of Gilead Sciences.
Unlike most disease elimination campaigns that stay within hospital walls, ETT walks directly into halfway houses and brings testing and treatment to those who need it most. No blood draws. No judgement. Just a fast, saliva-based antibody test, followed by a clear path to care.
Sealed with ink and intent during the MoU ceremony, this event was witnessed by Minister of State Mdm Rahayu Mahzam.
“This partnership marks a significant step to support former drug offenders in reclaiming their health and dignity. By breaking down barriers to care, we are restoring hope.”
Mrs Kim Lang Khalil, CEO of HCSA Community Services
From August 2025 through to the end of 2026, up to 600 individuals will be screened for HCV under this renewed collaboration. It’s building a bridge from uncertainty to care, with TTSH providing everything from educational outreach and clinical assessments to antiviral treatment and post-cure confirmation.
Those who walk through that bridge are also connected with HCSA’s wraparound support, including financial guidance and counselling.
The first phase of ETT in 2023 reached its 210-participant goal. Phase 2, currently ongoing, has already screened 85% of its 400-participant target:
93% of antibody-positive participants moved on to confirmatory testing.
68.5% of those with active infection have started or completed treatment.
Behind each statistic is someone choosing health over shame. Someone choosing to try again.
“We are making tangible progress toward turning the vision of Hepatitis C elimination among former drug offenders into reality. It is a privilege to deliver specialist care where it matters most.”
Dr Yew Kuo Chao, Senior Consultant, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at TTSH
Equally important are partners like the Tzu Chi Foundation, whose volunteers have stood shoulder to shoulder with programme staff, and Gilead Sciences, whose continued funding and advocacy have helped to keep momentum high.
“We are encouraged to see this network grow stronger year by year. It reflects the power of partnership in driving meaningful change.”
Ms Cathy Su, General Manager for Taiwan, Hong Kong & Singapore at Gilead Sciences
A Future Without Hepatitis C?
The World Health Organisation has set a bold target to eliminate hepatitis C as a public health threat by 2030. In Singapore, this partnership brings that dream a little closer to reality, especially for communities that are often the last to receive attention and care.
And while there’s still ground to cover, this MoU signing is a reaffirmation of belief in the simple idea that everyone deserves a future they can look forward to.
Futr's managing editor loves all things retro, even though he was born in the late 90s. Even though his main job encompasses tons of driving, he swears he turns off the lights each time he leaves his room.
