Critical-care resource allocation during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic in Singapore: A brief narrative review

Abstract

In the midst of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, where cases continue to increase exponentially every day, it is important to consider the future implications that this may have on the health-care system, the most feared situation being a shortage of critical-care resources, where difficult decisions have to be made about the allocation of scarce resources. In this brief narrative review, we conduct literature searches for COVID-19 ethical guidelines on critical-care resource allocation. Synthesising this information, we evaluate the relevant ethical principles and thereafter provide recommendations contextualised to Singapore. This brief narrative review aims to serve as a useful set of guiding principles for health-care professionals in Singapore, should the need for allocation of scarce resources arise.