The Ministry of Health (MOH) has ordered the closure of LC Nursing Home in Siglap, effective Nov 23, citing serious and systemic lapses in care and safety. This action follows a similar order issued to Windsor Convalescent Home in Pasir Panjang, which is scheduled to have its license revoked on Oct 30 due to failures in resident safety and infection control practices.
Background on LC Nursing Home Leadership
LC Nursing Home is led by founder and chief executive Chia Yang Pong, according to the facility’s website. Chia’s professional history includes a high-profile disciplinary case in 2004, when he was struck off the medical register by the Singapore Medical Council.
During that time, Chia was the sole licensee of the Grace Polyclinic chain, which comprised seven medical clinics. A 2002 inspection by authorities revealed that benzodiazepines were improperly prescribed to 80 patients without adequate medical records. The council noted that Chia’s actions amounted to the “systematic prescription of hypnotic drugs” without regard for patient health or potential harm.
Did You Know? Chia Yang Pong faced 80 charges of professional misconduct in 2004. While he was initially fined $65,000 and struck off the medical register, he successfully appealed to have his fine reduced to $10,000.
Corporate Connections and Property Assets
Corporate intelligence platform Sayari indicates that LC Nursing Home maintains close ties to Margaret Chio Nursing Home. Both facilities share an address at Jalan Ulu Siglap and are linked by a shared group of current and past directors.
Current directors of LC Nursing Home are Ng Lee Chow, who holds 87.5 per cent of shares, and Lydia Low Chia Sue-Ann, who holds 12.5 per cent. Ng is also a director and minority shareholder of Margaret Chio Nursing Home, where Chia serves as the majority shareholder and director. Property records show that Chia and Ng are joint owners of the site at 2 and 4 Jalan Ulu Siglap, which was recently marketed with a guide price of $28 million.
What May Happen Next
Following the license revocation on Nov 23, LC Nursing Home will be required to cease operations. Residents currently under the facility’s care will likely need to be relocated to other nursing homes to ensure continuity of service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is LC Nursing Home closing?
The Ministry of Health ordered the closure due to findings of serious and systemic lapses in care and safety.
Who is the founder of LC Nursing Home?
The facility’s website lists Chia Yang Pong as the founder and chief executive.
Are there other facilities affected by similar orders?
Yes, the Ministry of Health also ordered the closure of Windsor Convalescent Home in Pasir Panjang, with its license set to be revoked on Oct 30.
How will the closure of these facilities impact the availability of eldercare services in the respective districts?
