NGH Health Leverages AI to Enhance Medication Literacy in Singapore

In a pioneering initiative, NGH Health has launched MedVid, a groundbreaking project that utilizes artificial intelligence (AI) to generate educational videos aimed at improving medication literacy among patients in Singapore. This innovative approach addresses the significant challenge of medical non-adherence, particularly among older adults who often struggle to comprehend complex medication information.

The initiative was developed in collaboration with the Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, and it marks the first large-scale effort in Singapore's public healthcare system to provide medication information in all four of the nation’s official languages: English, Mandarin, Tamil, and Malay. The MedVid project comprises over 300 AI-generated videos covering 79 different medication topics, including commonly prescribed drugs and information on drug allergies. According to Sandra Xu, Principal Pharmacist (Clinical) at NHG Health and co-lead of the MedVid project, the complexity of medical jargon often overwhelms patients. "When we look at counselling, there’s a lot of retention of information required from a patient, which creates a cognitive burden when understanding their medications," Xu noted in an interview with GovInsider.

The necessity for such an initiative is underscored by statistics indicating that approximately two-thirds of older adults in Singapore exhibit limited medical literacy, which hinders their ability to effectively follow medication instructions. This lack of understanding can lead to severe consequences, including medication non-adherence, which not only compromises patient health but also wastes healthcare resources. A report from the European Commission highlighted that the annual cost of medication non-compliance in Europe alone amounts to approximately €125 billion (S$186.6 billion).

To create the videos, NHG Health conducted focus groups and reviewed existing materials from the National Medication Information workgroup to ensure the accuracy and comprehensibility of the content. The pharmacists involved provided insights on how to simplify complex clinical information, addressing common patient queries in a more relatable manner. Xu emphasized, "Using more natural language to break down medical information increases the likelihood of adherence to prescribed dosages and assists pharmacists in managing their resources more effectively."

A recent proof-of-value (PoV) study involving 149 patients revealed promising results, with 95% of participants finding the information easy to access. Furthermore, 87% of users expressed that the MedVid videos served as a suitable alternative to in-person consultations. The videos can be accessed via YouTube, the HealthHub website, and QR codes on medication labels, facilitating patient access to reliable information without the need for extensive verbal explanations from pharmacists.

As the healthcare landscape becomes increasingly digitized, Xu acknowledges the role of technology as a vital tool in improving healthcare services. "We are embracing more technology. In healthcare, we cannot avoid technology, especially with patients who are more digitally savvy now," she remarked. NGH Health plans to expand the video library, aiming to increase the collection two to three times its current size, focusing on frequently used medications to reach a broader patient demographic.

In conclusion, NGH Health’s MedVid project represents a significant step forward in enhancing medication literacy among Singapore’s diverse population. By utilizing AI technology to deliver clear, accessible information, the initiative not only empowers patients but also alleviates the burden on healthcare professionals, thereby enhancing overall patient care and resource management within the healthcare system.