How to Find a Doctor in Singapore: A Comprehensive Guide for Expats

Looking for a doctor in Singapore? Learn how to find general practitioners and specialists, book an appointment, and access private or public healthcare. Discover costs, insurance options, and emergency services for expats.

Introduction

Singapore is home to one of the world’s most efficient healthcare systems, offering high-quality medical services to residents and expats alike. Whether you need a general practitioner (GP) for routine check-ups or a specialist for advanced medical care, understanding how to navigate the healthcare system can ensure you receive timely and appropriate treatment.

This guide will cover everything you need to know about finding a doctor in Singapore, including booking appointments, healthcare costs, and insurance options.

Doctors in Singapore

Singapore’s healthcare system consists of both public and private medical facilities. The Ministry of Health (MOH) regulates all medical practitioners, ensuring high standards of care. Polyclinics serve as government-run primary care centers, while private clinics and hospitals cater to patients seeking faster and more personalized services.

Who Can Access Doctors in Singapore?

Anyone in Singapore, including expats and visitors, can access medical care. However, healthcare costs vary based on residency status:

Tier Who Subsidies 1 Singaporean Citizens Heavily subsidized 2 Permanent Residents Partially subsidized 3 Foreigners (Expats) No subsidies, must pay full cost or use private insurance

Expats typically rely on private healthcare due to shorter wait times and access to English-speaking doctors.

Finding a Doctor in Singapore

How to Find a General Practitioner (GP)

To locate a GP, you can use the following resources:

• Ministry of Health (MOH) Search Tool – Find licensed doctors in Singapore.

• SingHealth Directory – Search for doctors by specialty and location.

• HealthHub – Provides a list of all public and private healthcare facilities.

Finding English-Speaking Doctors

Since English is Singapore’s official business language, most doctors communicate fluently in English. If you need a doctor who speaks a specific language, check with your embassy’s recommended medical provider list.

How to Register with a Doctor

Expats can visit any private clinic without prior registration. However, for public polyclinics, you may need to provide:

• Identification (passport or work permit)

• Proof of insurance coverage

• Medical history (if applicable)

Booking a Doctor’s Appointment

How to Make an Appointment

• Online – Use the Health Appointment System (public clinics) or SingHealth’s Health Buddy app.

• Phone Call – Call the clinic or hospital directly.

• Walk-in Clinics – Available at polyclinics and some private clinics, though wait times can be long.

What to Expect During a Doctor’s Visit

• Consultation & Diagnosis: The doctor will assess your symptoms and recommend treatment.

• Prescriptions: Medications are available at on-site or nearby pharmacies.

• Payment: Fees must be paid before leaving (via cash, credit card, or digital payment methods like NETS).

Medical Specialists in Singapore

How to Find a Specialist

Specialists typically require a referral from a GP. You can find specialists through:

• Singapore Medical Council Directory

• SingHealth Database

Visiting a Specialist

• Expect higher consultation fees at private hospitals.

• Specialists in public hospitals have longer waiting times.

• Insurance coverage varies; check your plan for specialist consultations.

Costs of Seeing a Doctor in Singapore

Service Public Hospital Cost Private Hospital Cost GP Consultation S$30 – S$80 S$80 – S$150 Specialist Consultation S$150 – S$400 S$250 – S$600 Health Screening S$100 – S$300 S$300 – S$1,000

Health Insurance for Expats

Since expats are not eligible for subsidized healthcare, private health insurance is recommended. Options include:

• Allianz Care

• Cigna Global

• FWD

Additionally, Travel Doctor provides telehealth services for basic medical care, allowing expats to consult a doctor remotely. Learn more about what they treat at Travel Doctor and how it works at Travel Doctor How It Works.

Emergency Medical Services

In case of a medical emergency, call 995 for an ambulance. Expats can also visit 24-hour emergency clinics or hospital A&E departments.

Typical Emergency Costs

Service Cost (SGD) A&E Consultation S$120 – S$160 24-Hour Clinic S$80 – S$130

Doctor Prescriptions in Singapore

Doctors can issue prescriptions for necessary medications, available at:

• Polyclinic Pharmacies (cheaper for residents)

• Private Pharmacies (Guardian, Watsons, Unity)

• Online Pharmacies (for refills with valid prescriptions)

Medical Tests and Screenings

Regular check-ups and diagnostic tests are available at both public and private hospitals. Common tests include:

• Blood tests

• Cancer screenings

• Imaging tests (X-ray, MRI, CT scans)

Expats should check their insurance plans for coverage on medical tests and screenings.

Making a Complaint About a Doctor

If you need to file a complaint about a doctor, contact the Singapore Medical Council (SMC). Complaints must be submitted in writing with supporting documents, and resolutions may take several months.

Conclusion

Singapore offers world-class medical services, but expats must understand how to find a doctor, access medical care, and manage healthcare costs. While public hospitals provide high-quality services, private healthcare is often the best choice for faster access to treatment.

For routine medical concerns, expats can use Travel Doctor’s telehealth services or visit Travel Doctor’s in-person clinics in major European cities such as Paris, Berlin, and Budapest.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can expats access public healthcare in Singapore?

Yes, but they must pay full price as they do not qualify for government subsidies.

2. How do I find an English-speaking doctor?

Most doctors in Singapore speak English. Use MOH’s search tool to find a doctor near you.

3. Are private doctors better than public doctors?

Both provide excellent care, but private doctors offer shorter wait times and personalized services.

4. Do I need health insurance in Singapore?

Yes, as medical costs can be high. Consider Travel Doctor’s telehealth services for affordable virtual consultations.

For more details, visit Travel Doctor.