The Ministry of Health (MOH) was set up in 1955. Before its set-up, health matters and concerns of the country were handled by three different but related authorities: The Health Department of the City Council; the Rural Health Department of the Rural Board; and the Government Health Department under the direction of the Director of Health Service. MOH is responsible for Singapore's health policies. Its role is to provide a modern, comprehensive and efficient health care service and to co-ordinate the planning and development of the public and private healthcare sectors. Through MOH, the Government manages the public healthcare system to ensure that good and affordable basic medical services are available to all Singaporeans. MOH works closely with other government agencies in the maintenance of good environmental hygiene and the control of communicable diseases.
