Welcome to Singapore, a bustling city-state known for its exceptional food, beautiful architecture, and world-class healthcare system. Healthcare in Singapore is considered to be exceptional, with high-quality medical facilities and highly trained medical professionals. As a visitor, you must understand what medical services are available, should you need them during your stay. In this guide, we’ll provide a comprehensive overview of medical services in Singapore to help you navigate the system.

Before we discuss the healthcare system in Singapore, note that:

1. Before visiting a healthcare facility in Singapore, make sure to carry your passport as it is the most commonly accepted form of identification.
2. Additionally, if you have a pre-existing medical condition, it is helpful to carry all your past case papers. 
3. If you have overseas insurance, be aware that it may not work on a cashless basis, so you may need to pay upfront and claim later. Check with your insurance provider before traveling to Singapore to understand their coverage and claims process.
4. However, it is recommended to carry your own prescription medications with you, along with the prescription. Be aware that medications containing cannabis or any other prohibited items, like psychotropic substances, hormonal preparations, and drugs containing codeine and sedatives, are not allowed in Singapore. 

Healthcare Services in Singapore

Primary Healthcare Services

If you’re unwell, visit a GP or clinic in residential areas or shopping malls for primary medical services like consultations, prescriptions, and vaccinations. 

Insider Tip: Make sure to purchase travel insurance before entering Singapore! With comprehensive medical coverage in your travel insurance plan, you can enjoy your trip with complete peace of mind, knowing that you are protected in any unexpected medical emergencies.

Specialist Healthcare Services

For complex medical problems, you may consult a specialist in Singapore’s government or private hospitals. Singapore is known for its world-class specialized healthcare services. Here are some popular hospitals in Singapore.

Government hospitals in Singapore

Government hospitals in Singapore offer affordable rates for medical procedures and treatments, and have a strong focus on research and training, leading to cutting-edge medical treatments and highly skilled staff. You can receive medical attention at any time, as these hospitals are open 24/7. Some of the famous government hospitals are

1. Singapore General Hospital: This is one of the largest hospitals in Singapore and offers a wide range of medical specialties, including cardiology, oncology, and neurology. They have been awarded the Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation for their high quality of care. 

Click here to visit their website.

1. National University Hospital: This public hospital is a part of the National University Health System. They offer specialized healthcare services, including organ transplantation and pediatric medicine. They have been awarded the JCI accreditation and the Magnet Recognition Program® for nursing excellence. 

Click here to check their website.

1. Tan Tock Seng Hospital: This government-owned hospital specializes in infectious diseases and emergency medicine. They have been awarded the JCI accreditation and the Singapore Health Quality Service Award for their outstanding patient care. 

Click here to check their website.

Insider Tip: Cleanliness and hygiene at hospitals in Singapore are strictly regulated, so you can rest assured that their health and safety are well protected.

Private hospitals in Singapore

Private hospitals in Singapore offer luxurious amenities and personalized care, with shorter wait times for appointments and access to the latest medical technology. These hospitals provide medical care around the clock. Some of the popular private hospitals are

1. Mount Elizabeth Hospital: Part of the Parkway Pantai healthcare group, they offer a range of medical specialties, including cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. They have been awarded the JCI accreditation and the Singapore Service Class Award for their commitment to service excellence.

Click here to visit their website.

1. Raffles Hospital: Part of the Raffles Medical Group, they offer a range of medical specialties, including cardiology, oncology, and fertility treatments. They have been awarded the JCI accreditation and the Singapore Quality Class Award for their excellence in service delivery.

Click here to visit their website.

1. Gleneagles Hospital: Part of the Parkway Pantai healthcare group, they offer a range of medical specialties, including cardiology, oncology, and gastroenterology. They have been awarded JCI accreditation and the Joint Asia Pacific Quality Award for their excellence in healthcare service delivery. 

Click here to visit their website.

Insider Tip: Bring medical records, prescriptions, and enough medication for your trip to Singapore to ensure appropriate medical care.

Emergency Healthcare Services

In an emergency, quick and efficient access to healthcare services can make all the difference. By understanding the resources available in an emergency, visitors can feel more secure and confident while exploring Singapore.

1. Ambulance Services

Singapore’s emergency healthcare system is reliable, with 24/7 ambulance services and well-equipped hospital emergency departments. In case of a medical emergency, call 995 for an ambulance.

1. Defibrillators:

In Singapore, defibrillators, life-saving devices to restore a normal heartbeat during a cardiac arrest, are commonly found in public places such as airports, shopping malls, and sports facilities. The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) also has a fleet of ambulances equipped with defibrillators that can be dispatched in an emergency.

To locate defibrillators in Singapore, you can use the SGSecure app or visit the SGSecure website. You can also look for signage indicating the presence of defibrillators in public places.

1. Emergency Oxygen:

In an emergency, oxygen may be required to help patients breathe. Emergency oxygen is available at hospitals and medical clinics in Singapore. The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) also has a fleet of ambulances equipped with oxygen tanks that can be dispatched in an emergency.

To access emergency oxygen, you can call the SCDF at 995 or visit the nearest hospital or medical clinic.

1. Rare Blood:

In cases where a patient requires a rare blood type, the Singapore Red Cross Blood Donor Recruitment Centre can assist in finding suitable donors. The centre maintains a database of blood donors with rare blood types and can coordinate with hospitals to provide the necessary blood.

To request rare blood, the patient’s doctor or hospital can contact the Singapore Red Cross Blood Donor Recruitment Centre. The centre can be reached at +65 6220 0183 or bloodbank@redcross.sg.

Singapore: A Hub for Medical Tourism and Innovation

Singapore has become a leading destination for medical tourism in recent years, attracting patients from around the world seeking high-quality medical care. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with world-class hospitals and medical facilities that are staffed by highly trained and experienced healthcare professionals. Singapore is also known for its advanced medical technology and research, which allows it to offer cutting-edge treatments and procedures that are not available in many other countries.

What is Singapore famous for?

Singapore has achieved many medical firsts and breakthroughs in recent years. Here are just a few examples:

1. Robotic Surgery: Singapore was the first country in the world to perform a robotic-assisted surgery using the da Vinci Surgical System. This technology allows surgeons to operate with greater precision and control, leading to faster recovery times and fewer complications.
2. Genome Sequencing: Singapore is at the forefront of genetic research, with the government investing heavily in this area. In 2019, researchers from the National University of Singapore announced that they had successfully sequenced the entire human genome in just 48 hours, a feat that previously took months to accomplish.
3. Stem Cell Research: Singapore has made significant strides in stem cell research, with researchers at the National University of Singapore developing a technique to extract stem cells from human urine. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for a variety of diseases.
4. Cancer Treatment: Singapore is home to some of the world’s leading cancer treatment centers, including the National Cancer Centre Singapore. The country is also a pioneer in proton therapy, a highly precise form of radiation therapy that targets tumors while minimizing damage to healthy tissue.

Hence, Singapore is renowned for its excellence in various medical specialties, including but not limited to:

1. Cardiology: Singapore has some of the best heart specialists in the world, who are experienced in treating a wide range of heart conditions using the latest technology and techniques.
2. Oncology: Singapore has made significant advances in cancer treatment, with leading hospitals offering a comprehensive range of diagnostic and treatment options, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy.
3. Transplantation: Singapore is a leading center for organ transplantation, with highly skilled surgeons performing kidney, liver, and other organ transplants with excellent success rates.
4. Robotics: Singapore is at the forefront of robotic surgery, with leading hospitals utilizing state-of-the-art surgical robots to perform minimally invasive procedures with unparalleled precision and accuracy.

Telemedicine and Virtual Healthcare

If you’re sick but don’t want to leave your hotel room, consider using a telemedicine service. These services are affordable and convenient, allowing patients to consult with a doctor remotely without visiting a clinic or hospital. Virtual consultations are usually conducted via video conferencing, and patients can receive a diagnosis and prescription medication if needed. Some popular services in Singapore 

• Doctor Anywhere

Doctor Anywhere is a digital healthcare platform that provides remote video consultations with healthcare professionals, online pharmacy services, and home-based health screening packages. For more information or to book a consultation, visit their website.

• WhiteCoat

WhiteCoat is a mobile app that offers on-demand medical services, such as teleconsultations, medication delivery, and home-based medical services with Singapore-registered doctors. To learn more or to download the app, visit their website.

Insider Tip: To prevent dehydration-related illnesses, drink plenty of water and avoid excessive alcohol consumption in Singapore’s humid climate. Additionally, it’s recommended to bring sunscreen and insect repellent due to the hot and humid weather and the risk of mosquito-borne diseases.

Important Healthcare Resources

As a visitor, it’s vital to have access to accurate and reliable healthcare information. Here are some valuable resources to help you navigate Singapore’s healthcare system:

Ministry of Health (MOH) website: The MOH website provides information on healthcare policies, regulations, and services in Singapore. 

Contact: +65 6325 9220

Ministry of Health Medical Directory: This Medical Directory allows you to search for clinics, hospitals, laboratories, and nursing homes in Singapore. 

Singapore Medical Council’s website: To find a specific doctor or specialist, check the Singapore Medical Council’s website, which lists their name and qualifications. It lists registered doctors’ information. 

HealthHub: HealthHub is a one-stop online platform for healthcare services in Singapore. You can book appointments, access medical records, and make payments. Click here to check their website and download the app.

Emergency Resources:

1. Ambulance and fire department: 995
2. Police: 999
3. Non-emergency ambulance: 1777
4. Non-emergency police: 1800-255-0000
5. Traffic Police – 6547 0000
6. Emergency Medical Services (for foreigners) – +65 6473 7222
7. Singapore General Hospital: +65 6222 3322
8. National University Hospital: +65 6779 5555
9. Changi General Hospital: +65 6788 8833
10. Tan Tock Seng Hospital: +65 6256 6011
11. Mount Elizabeth Hospital: +65 6731 2218
12. Raffles Hospital: +65 6311 1111

Insider Tip: If you are traveling to Singapore with children or have any allergies, bring necessary medications like pain relief medication, antihistamines, insect repellent, and an epinephrine auto-injector.

Visiting Singapore is an incredibly exciting experience, and by taking a few precautions, you can ensure that you’re prepared for any medical emergencies or health issues that may arise. Remember to take note of the healthcare resources and insider tips we’ve shared to make the most of your visit to Singapore.