Singapore's regulatory agency Health Sciences Authority (HSA), since its establishment in 2001, has built a smart regulatory environment to support the development of the biomedical sector and has gained international acceptance. In an interview with BioSpectrum, Dr Raymond Chua, group director, Health Products Regulation Group, Health Sciences Authority, Singapore, talks about the role played by the authority in regulating the industry and enabling its growth.

What is the approach of HSA towards maintaining good health practises in Singapore?

Dr Chua: The HSA has taken a holistic approach towards maintaining good health practises. We have judiciously adopted good international regulatory principles and practises to meet Singapore's unique demands without compromising public safety, imposing over-regulations or blindly approving products that are already approved in the international market.

The HSA ensures that pharmaceuticals, biologics, medical devices and health-related products in Singapore are wisely regulated to meet appropriate standards of safety, quality and efficacy through the product life cycle. It has also increased post marketing surveillance activities to keep an eye on approved products. Besides, it has fostered strategic partnerships with international and regional bodies to share information at various fronts, leverage on expertise and work with more advanced agencies.

What activities are categorized under post marketing surveillance?