S'porean man allegedly turned away from Sengkang Polyclinic without being triaged, later diagnosed with corneal ulcer

A Singaporean man in his 30s claimed he was turned away from Sengkang Polyclinic without being triaged on the day he experienced severe eye pain. According to Bob (not his real name), he called the healthcare institution's general booking line at 8:58am, only to be told the clinic's appointment slots were full. Despite his urgent symptoms, he was allegedly stopped at the registration counter at Sengkang Polyclinic and told to return the next day.

He later went to Punggol Polyclinic, where he was seen by a doctor and diagnosed with a corneal ulcer, a vision-threatening condition requiring immediate treatment. Bob filed a complaint with SingHealth Polyclinics, but the healthcare institution said they were unable to establish his interaction with triage staff due to lack of records.

SHP's Clinic Director noted that patients should make appointments beforehand and that those arriving without one are given the next available slot, which could be the following day if all appointments are filled. Bob disputed this, saying he tried to be seen urgently and was turned away on both occasions. He emphasized the critical need for prompt treatment to prevent vision loss and expressed concern about the gaps in the triage process.