The Healthcare System in Singapore: A Comprehensive Guide for Expats

Overview of Healthcare in Singapore

Singapore is renowned for its world-class healthcare system, offering high-quality medical services with both public and private healthcare options. Ranked among the best globally, the healthcare system provides efficient, high-tech medical care, though accessibility and costs vary depending on residency status.

Citizens and permanent residents benefit from public healthcare subsidies, while expats and temporary residents must rely on private insurance or pay out-of-pocket for medical services. Expats looking for reliable telehealth services in Singapore can access online medical consultations through Travel Doctor.

Who Can Access Healthcare in Singapore?

• Citizens and Permanent Residents: Covered by a public health insurance system funded by employer and employee contributions.

• Expats and Temporary Residents: Must rely on private health insurance or pay full fees at both public and private healthcare facilities.

• Tourists and Short-Term Visitors: Can access medical services but must pay in full or use travel insurance.

Cost of Healthcare in Singapore

Healthcare in Singapore is not free, but costs vary based on subsidies, residency status, and insurance coverage. Citizens and permanent residents receive government subsidies, while expats and non-residents pay higher fees.

Estimated Healthcare Costs in Singapore

Service Citizens/PR Fees Non-Residents Fees General Doctor Consultation S$15 – S$30 S$50 – S$80 Specialist Consultation S$50 – S$120 S$100 – S$250 Hospital Inpatient Fee (Public) S$210 – S$420/day S$800 – S$1,500/day Emergency Room Visit S$120 – S$400 S$600 – S$1,200 Dental Checkup S$40 – S$100 S$75 – S$250

For cost-effective online medical consultations in Singapore, Travel Doctor provides affordable telehealth services for expats.

Health Insurance in Singapore

Singapore operates a multi-layered health insurance system, primarily benefiting citizens and permanent residents:

• MediShield Life: Covers major healthcare expenses such as hospital stays and specialist care.

• MediSave: A compulsory savings scheme where 8–10.5% of an individual’s salary is set aside for medical expenses.

• MediFund: A financial assistance scheme for low-income citizens who struggle to pay medical bills.

Private Health Insurance for Expats

Expats and non-residents are not covered by Singapore’s public healthcare subsidies and must secure private health insurance. Options include:

• Local Health Insurance Plans

• International Expat Health Insurance from providers like Cigna, Allianz, and AIA

• Work Visa-Based Insurance (Required for S Pass holders)

Expats can also access Travel Doctor’s telehealth platform for primary care consultations.

Public vs. Private Healthcare in Singapore

Feature Public Healthcare Private Healthcare Cost Lower (subsidized for citizens/PRs) Higher (full fees apply) Waiting Time Longer Shorter Specialist Access Referral needed Direct access Insurance Requirement Public schemes (MediShield) Private insurance needed for expats

Accessing Healthcare in Singapore as an Expat

1. Choose a Health Insurance Plan (Private or employer-provided)

2. Register with a Healthcare Provider (GP, dentist, or specialist)

3. Locate Nearest Hospitals and Clinics (Public & Private facilities available)

4. Use Telehealth Services – Travel Doctor offers online medical consultations.

Hospitals and Clinics in Singapore

Singapore has 14 public hospitals, including:

• General Hospitals: Singapore General Hospital, National University Hospital

• Specialty Hospitals: National Cancer Centre, National Heart Centre

• Children & Maternity Hospitals: KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital

Private hospitals include Mount Elizabeth Hospital, Gleneagles Hospital, and Raffles Hospital, catering to expats seeking premium healthcare.

Pharmacies and Medications in Singapore

• 24-Hour Pharmacies Available (Guardian, Watsons, Unity)

• Prescription & OTC Medications Readily Available

• Insurance may cover medications (Check policy for drug coverage)

Emergency Medical Services

• Ambulance (Public): Dial 995 (Emergency hospital transport)

• Non-Emergency Ambulance: Dial 1777 (Private hospital transfer)

• ER Visit Costs: S$600 – S$1,200 (non-residents)

Mental Health Support in Singapore

Singapore offers limited public mental health services but has private psychiatric clinics and therapy centers. Expats can access therapy through:

• Institute of Mental Health (IMH)

• Private Psychiatric Clinics

• Online Therapy via Telehealth Services

Telehealth & English-Speaking Doctors in Singapore

For expats seeking English-speaking doctors in Singapore, Travel Doctor provides telehealth services for primary care, prescriptions, and general medical advice.

FAQs: Healthcare in Singapore

1. Can expats access public healthcare in Singapore?

Yes, but at full cost without subsidies. Private insurance is recommended.

2. How expensive is private healthcare in Singapore?

Costs are high, with specialist visits starting from S$100–S$250 and hospital stays exceeding S$1,000/day.

3. Do I need health insurance as an expat in Singapore?

Yes, private health insurance is necessary unless your employer provides coverage.

4. Where can I find English-speaking doctors in Singapore?

Many doctors speak English, but Travel Doctor offers telehealth consultations in English for expats.

5. How do I handle medical emergencies in Singapore?

Dial 995 for an ambulance, or visit public hospital emergency rooms.