Healthcare in Singapore

Healthcare in Singapore is of an extremely high standard. The city-state is consistently ranked among the best-performing countries in the world in healthcare. Medical staff are highly trained, friendly and almost always proficient in English, and health facilities are well maintained. 

Both public and private sector services are available, and though expats often debate the merits of each, both function efficiently and professionally. The private sector is pricier than public healthcare, but many are happy to pay more for shorter wait times and greater comfort.

When it comes to health insurance, Singapore has a fairly unique system of universal coverage. Patients are expected to co-pay for most of their medical expenses, but in return, they have access to basic, affordable healthcare when it's needed most.

Unfortunately, only expats who are permanent residents or citizens will have access to the public health insurance system. Expats usually either take out health insurance or receive insurance through their employer.

Health insurance in Singapore

Public health insurance in Singapore is only available to citizens and permanent residents. It primarily comprises state subsidies, MediSave, and MediShield Life and is managed by the Central Provident Fund (CPF). 

MediSave

MediSave is the compulsory national medical savings scheme, designed to help working adults set aside funds for healthcare expenses. Both employees and employers are required to make monthly contributions to a savings fund, and additional voluntary contributions can also be made to top up the fund. 

Various healthcare-related costs are covered by MediSave, such as paying premiums for public or private health insurance (including MediShield Life), paying for inpatient and outpatient healthcare, and paying for long-term care.

MediShield Life

Medishield Life is a basic health insurance plan that covers large medical expenses like hospitalisation and expensive outpatient treatments. Premiums are automatically deducted from a person's MediSave account.

Integrated Shield Plan

Singapore citizens and permanent residents can also opt into an Integrated Shield Plan (IP). IPs combine the benefits of MediShield Life with extra coverage, and are provided by a range of private insurance companies.

Private insurance for expats

As expats don't have access to public health insurance, they'll need to invest in private health insurance.

Both local and international insurance companies operate in Singapore, and there are numerous plans and types of coverage available. Costs vary tremendously, and expats will need to evaluate each package to find the best fit for them.

Many companies in Singapore include health insurance in employment packages, and if the subject is not broached during contract negotiation, expats should enquire.

Public healthcare in Singapore 

Public hospitals are among the most respected institutions in Singapore. The more esteemed hospitals even receive complicated cases that neighbouring countries aren't equipped to handle.

That said, these facilities mainly cater to locals and permanent residents who are entitled to subsidised care based on their contributions to a national insurance scheme. Expats without permanent residency status aren't privy to these subsidies, and in such cases, there isn't a big difference in price between public and private care.

Private healthcare in Singapore

Many expats prefer private healthcare in Singapore as it doesn't cost much more than public facilities, and the service levels are assumed to be better.

There are plenty of private hospitals, medical centres, and individual practices in the city-state; expats simply have to decide which one suits their needs best.

Anyone can use private facilities, and though day-to-day healthcare costs can be surprisingly affordable, we recommend investing in a good health insurance policy.

Hospitals in Singapore 

Singapore has several public hospitals, including the National University Hospital (NUH), Singapore General Hospital (SGH), and Changi General Hospital (CGH). These hospitals are funded and managed by the government and provide a wide range of medical services primarily to Singaporean citizens and permanent residents.

The vast majority of expats do not qualify for public healthcare and therefore need to pay for any medical treatments out of their own pocket or through private medical insurance. In addition to public hospitals, Singapore boasts many world-class private hospitals that offer a range of specialised medical services and typically provide a more personalised patient experience and shorter waiting times.

See our guide to the Best Private Hospitals in Singapore.

Pharmacies in Singapore

Over-the-counter medications are available from supermarkets, department stores, shopping centres, and chemists right across Singapore. Prescription medication can be purchased at pharmacies. It's also becoming more common to order medication online and have it delivered to your home, and many healthcare providers offer this service.

Expats should note that some medications that can be bought over the counter in other countries may require a prescription in Singapore, and vice versa. If you take a particular medication regularly, make sure you know the generic name as brand names may differ in Singapore.

Health risks in Singapore

The two biggest health concerns for expats are likely to be sunburn and dehydration. The wall of heat and humidity that greets newly arrived expats when they first step out of the air-conditioned confines of the airport is difficult to anticipate. 

Staying well hydrated and using sunblock is vital for defending against the year-round hot climate. There is a risk of mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever and the Zika virus in Singapore, and hand, foot and mouth disease is common among young children in Singapore.

Vaccinations for Singapore

Before moving to Singapore, expats should ensure they are up to date with routine vaccinations. This includes vaccines for measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTaP), varicella (chickenpox), polio, and a yearly flu shot. 

Depending on individual circumstances, additional vaccines such as Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, Japanese encephalitis, and yellow fever may be recommended. Consulting a healthcare professional well in advance of the move is crucial for personalised advice.

Parents should note that Singapore has specific vaccination requirements for children enrolling in local schools. These requirements align with the national immunisation schedule, ensuring the safety and health of all children.

Emergency services in Singapore

Dial 995 for fire and ambulance services. Ambulances are generally well equipped, and patients are transported to the nearest government hospital. Ambulance staff are trained in trauma and life support.

Expats can also choose to use the ambulance services of a private hospital of their choice, but in this instance, they'll need to obtain the relevant emergency number from the chosen hospital.