Singapore may be technologically advanced in healthcare, however, there may be sections in the health system that have yet to catch up – including sexual health.

In this small island nation-state of nearly six million people, sexual and reproductive health remains a topic too sensitive and intimate to be discussed in the open. 

Access to the internet and the general acceptability of telemedicine in recent years, however, have made Singaporeans more open to discussing these matters. 

A few providers, including over-a-year-old startup Quinn, are working with this perceived openness to encourage and assist them in taking charge of their own sexual health. Founded in 2023 under the sexual health-focused private primary care group Republic Healthcare, Quinn provides discreet online services, such as STD testing, consultations on men's and women's health and sensitive conditions, including hair loss, acne, and weight management, and medication delivery.  

Mobihealth News spoke with Deo Jimenez, digital marketing manager of Quinn, to discuss more how telemedicine is helping push more Singaporeans to value their sexual health while maintaining respectful and secure connections. 

Q. How does Quinn facilitate teleconsultations? 

A. The journey begins when a consumer visits our website and selects products related to their specific health concerns. Our platform distinguishes between services that require teleconsultation and those that don’t, guiding patients smoothly to the right option. For services needing a consultation, visitors are prompted to provide essential information and choose an appointment time that suits their schedule.

After booking, patients receive a confirmation email with all necessary details, including a secure link to the video call platform. On consultation day, our team sends a reminder to ensure a seamless experience. When the patient joins, they’re welcomed by one of Quinn’s reliable online doctors, each trained to provide personalised, compassionate care. Consultations are tailored in length and scope based on individual needs, allowing us to offer the most effective solutions in real time.

Q. How do Singaporean people perceive sexual health? Are there a lot of Singaporeans seeking assistance or support for sexual concerns? 

A. Based on Quinn’s data and ongoing patient feedback, we see a growing openness among Singaporean nationals towards discussing sexual health—a shift we’re proud to support through our confidential, patient-centred services. Our reliable online doctors are trained to create a safe and respectful environment, fostering trust so that patients feel at ease sharing their personal health concerns. 

Teleconsultations at Quinn provide an ideal solution for those who prefer the comfort of their own home, allowing patients to address sensitive issues on their own terms. This flexibility and discretion help break down long-standing barriers, moving Singaporean attitudes towards sexual health in a more positive, progressive direction.

Q. What are some major challenges and issues around sexual health in Singapore?

A. Despite increased openness, cultural sensitivity around sexual health remains a factor in Singapore, and advertising regulations add another layer of complexity. As a result, Quinn employs alternative methods like digital outreach and partnerships to reach potential clients, although budget constraints make it challenging to compete with larger, established providers.

Additionally, medical teleconsultation companies may struggle with perceived credibility compared to physical doctors, which can hinder patient trust and engagement. We understand that sexual health issues may be underdiagnosed in Singapore due to lingering stigma, so we're committed to encouraging openness among patients and connecting them with resources that effectively address these important concerns.

Q. As a telehealth provider, how is Quinn approaching the cultural sensitivity around sexual health among Singaporean consumers?

A. To market Quinn effectively, especially given the sensitive nature of sexual health, we tailor our messaging to fit each channel. For traditional media, we adopt a "safer" tone, while more liberal outlets allow a more direct approach. Social media messaging is also optimised to fit platform expectations and audience openness.

In Singapore’s multicultural context, we ensure our content is inclusive and non-judgmental, focusing on professional care for all health concerns without stigmatising. Our goal is to destigmatise sexual health by making consultations accessible and discreet, encouraging open conversations.

At Quinn, we recognise the importance of cultural sensitivity, particularly in areas like sexual health. Our platform is designed to accommodate patients who may be more reserved, offering a discreet and respectful space for health consultations. With the convenience of virtual care, patients can discuss sensitive topics privately, eliminating the need for a clinic visit.

Our commitment to accessibility is further supported by same-day medication delivery for orders placed before 12 noon, and next-day delivery for later orders. Quinn’s approach ensures that Singaporeans have access to expert sexual health support whenever they need it, with complete privacy and convenience.

Q. Given healthcare's high susceptibility to cyberattacks, how are you maintaining the privacy, security, and integrity of your platform and patient data?

A. At Quinn, we prioritise privacy and security across every layer of our platform infrastructure, establishing protocols that meet industry standards for telehealth. Our platform architecture is designed with multi-layered security measures and role-based access controls, ensuring only authorised personnel can access sensitive systems and data. 

We host confidential information on our own server that is under constant maintenance and hardened from cyberattacks while leveraging a Ministry of Health-approved CRM system, which provides encrypted storage to secure patient records, appointments, and health histories. This CRM uses encryption algorithms and password-protected access protocols, safeguarding patient information at every touchpoint.

By implementing end-to-end encryption on patient data transfers, we maintain a secure connection between patients and our doctors. Our robust cybersecurity framework empowers patients to seek care with confidence, knowing their information is protected by Quinn.

Q. Any future direction/plan of the company that you may share? 

A. Quinn is focused on strengthening sexual health options in Singapore, addressing the lack of discreet online services for consultations, testing, and medications. With few private telehealth options in this field, Quinn offers Singaporeans a secure, confidential way to manage sensitive health needs from home, supporting a more open, accessible approach to sexual health care.

Quinn’s medical partner, DTAP Clinics, established in 2005, has doctors focused on the diagnosis and management of sexual, men’s and women’s health conditions. This sets Quinn apart from other telehealth providers, which may not have the wealth of experience that comes with Quinn’s medical partner.

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Jimenez's responses have been edited for the sake of brevity and accuracy.