Healthcare in Singapore
 

Public hospitals are well equipped, and patients from surrounding countries often travel to Singapore for more complex treatments and a better standard of care. Community clinics, known as polyclinics, serve as multifunctional primary-care facilities. They provide health screenings and immunisation as well as general outpatient services, including dentistry in some cases.

Singapore has a unique approach to public healthcare whereby patients co-pay for most of their medical expenses through contributions to a mandatory savings plan. Unfortunately, only citizens or permanent residents can access this care, which is why most expats in Singapore take out private health insurance or have it provided by their employer as part of their expat package.

Private hospitals are slightly pricier than their public counterparts but the level of service is also slightly better. They tend to cater more for foreigners and wealthy Singaporeans, and are usually smaller and less prevalent than public hospitals.

For expats living in Singapore, a good international health insurance plan is advisable to ensure continued access to quality healthcare and to avoid out-of-pocket medical fees.

Those moving to Singapore for work are likely to have private health insurance included as part of their relocation package. Regardless, it is wise to carefully check the terms of any health insurance policy to ensure that it provides adequate cover to meet each individual’s needs.

Most hospitals and clinics in Singapore have dedicated pharmacies attached. These tend to be the only 24-hour pharmacies available. Some retail pharmacies have extended opening hours, but do not necessarily dispense medication at all hours.

Almost all medication in Singapore requires a prescription, and foreign prescriptions will not always be honoured. Some medication, such as mild painkillers and cough medicine, can be bought over the counter and at supermarkets or department stores. Imported medication can be expensive, but generic options are widely available.

Sunburn, heatstroke and dehydration are the main health hazards expats face in Singapore. Temperatures are usually around 86°F (30°C) and the humidity can be uncomfortable for new arrivals. It is crucial that expats remember to stay hydrated throughout the day.

Fortunately, the water quality in Singapore is excellent, and can be used straight from the tap with no need for filtering.

Singapore’s close proximity to the equator means that UV levels can be intense. Using a good-quality sunblock of at least SPF 30 is vital to avoid sun damage.

It’s advised that expats have all their regular vaccinations up to date before leaving for Singapore, as well as the Covid vaccine.

Singapore has two systems for medical services. The national emergency number connects to the fire department and public ambulance service. Ambulances are well equipped and each is manned by a paramedic and two EMTs. These official ambulances will take patients to the closest public hospital. There is no charge for using national ambulances unless they are called in non-emergency situations.

In non-critical outpatient cases, expats can either go directly to the hospital themselves or call the non-emergency ambulance hotline. This links to a network of private ambulance operators that can assist patients by transporting them to the nearest private health facility. Fees for the use of a private ambulance can be expensive, but vary from operator to operator.

The national emergency number for public ambulances is 995. Non-emergency and private ambulance services can be reached on 1777. Expats should always keep the contact details of their nearest local embassy on hand for cases of emergency.

Our plans, created in partnership with Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty SE Singapore Branch are designed for international and local Singaporean companies.