Healthcare in Singapore
Singapore's healthcare system is among the best in the world, but expats need to understand how it works and plan accordingly.
The 3M System (For Citizens & PRs Only)
Singapore's healthcare is built on three pillars, available only to citizens and PRs:
- MediSave: Mandatory savings account for medical expenses
- MediShield Life: Basic health insurance
- MediFund: Safety net for the needy
Important: As a foreigner on a work pass, you have NO access to these subsidies. You pay full, unsubsidized rates.
Healthcare Options for Expats
Public Hospitals: Excellent quality but minimal subsidies for foreigners. Lower cost than private but still expensive.
Major public hospitals:
- Singapore General Hospital (SGH)
- Tan Tock Seng Hospital
- National University Hospital (NUH)
- Khoo Teck Puat Hospital
Private Hospitals: Shorter waits, premium facilities, very expensive.
Top private hospitals:
- Gleneagles Hospital
- Mount Elizabeth Hospital
- Raffles Hospital
- Parkway East Hospital
Typical Healthcare Costs (Unsubsidized)
| Service | Public Hospital | Private Hospital |
|---|---|---|
| GP Visit | S$20-50 | S$80-200 |
| Specialist Consultation | S$80-150 | S$150-400 |
| Emergency Room | S$100-300+ | S$200-500+ |
| Normal Delivery | S$5,000-8,000 | S$12,000-25,000 |
| Appendectomy | S$4,000-10,000 | S$15,000-30,000 |
| MRI Scan | S$500-800 | S$1,000-2,000 |
Health Insurance for Expats
Private health insurance is essential. Options include:
Employer-provided insurance: Most common for EP holders. Check what's covered—some plans are basic.
Integrated Shield Plans for Foreigners: Local insurers offer plans that work with Singapore's system.
International Health Insurance: Comprehensive global coverage. Providers: Cigna, Allianz, BUPA, AXA. Cost: S$3,000-6,000+/year for individual.
What to Look For in Insurance
- Inpatient coverage (hospitalization)
- Outpatient coverage (GP visits, specialists)
- Cancer and chronic disease coverage
- Emergency evacuation
- Pre-existing condition coverage (if applicable)
Finding Healthcare
GP Clinics: Walk-in clinics are everywhere. No appointment needed for minor issues. S$20-50 per visit.
Polyclinics: Government-run primary care. Cheaper but longer waits. Foreigners pay higher rates.
Specialists: Usually need referral from GP. Direct appointments possible at private hospitals.
Emergency Services
- Emergency Number: 995 (ambulance and fire)
- Non-Emergency Ambulance: 1777
- Most hospitals have 24/7 emergency departments
Mental Health
Mental health services are available but can be expensive. Options include:
- Public: Institute of Mental Health (IMH)
- Private: Various psychiatric practices
- Online: Telehealth options emerging
Stigma around mental health is decreasing but still exists in Singapore.
Pro Tips
- •Get comprehensive private health insurance before arriving
- •Employer insurance may be basic—consider supplementing it
- •Use polyclinics for minor issues to save money
- •Keep receipts for all medical expenses—insurance claims need them
- •Singapore hospitals are excellent but expensive—don't skip insurance
Have questions about healthcare in Singapore?