Supporting a Patient with Intellectual Disability in a GP Clinic: A Practical Approach

Abstract

People with intellectual disability(PwID) pose a challenge to Primary Care Physicians due to their complex care needs arising from their multiple biological, psychological, social and factors. Although the exact prevalence is not documented in Singapore, it is estimated that about 3% of the population has Intellectual Disability. The local primary healthcare landscape is due to undergo significant changes with the implementation of Healthier SG and this will see the empanelment of patients to one family physician to ensure ongoing care continuity and personalised healthcare for the local population. Primary healthcare providers are aptly placed to manage PwID, with the aim of maintaining these patients in the community and reducing the stressors that their secondary care partners are already facing. To achieve this, it is recommended that comprehensive assessments looking at the patient as well as their family, social and care network be done. There are numerous obstacles to consider, from encouraging and allowing access to healthcare providers, to managing the consultation so that effective information exchange can occur, to effective management of medical, behavioural issues and management of the patients carer, family and support network. An effective interprofessional approach in the management of PwID and support to their family/carers not only ensures their holistic well-being, but also their ability to integrate into the community.