At a Glance: Singapore Healthcare
| System Philosophy | Co-payment (No Free Healthcare) |
|---|---|
| Managed By | Ministry of Health (MOH) & CPF Board |
| Mandatory For | Citizens & PRs (MediShield Life) |
| Funding Source | MediSave (Salary Deduction) + Govt Subsidies |
| Primary Care | Polyclinics (Subsidized) / GP Clinics (Private) |
| Emergency Number | 995 (Emergency Ambulance), 1777 (Non-Emergency) |
Singapore's healthcare system is consistently ranked as one of the most efficient in the world. It is not "Free" like the UK, nor is it purely insurance-based like the USA. It is a unique hybrid system built on the philosophy that "No Singaporean should be denied medical care because of inability to pay."
The system relies on the "3Ms" framework: MediSave, MediShield Life, and MediFund.
1. MediSave
A national medical savings scheme. Every working citizen/PR contributes a part of their monthly salary (7% - 10.5%) into their CPF MediSave Account. You use this money to pay for your own or your family's hospitalization bills.
2. MediShield Life
A basic health insurance plan that protects against large hospital bills. It is mandatory for all Citizens and PRs. It covers subsidized treatment in public hospitals (B2/C Class wards). Premiums can be paid fully using MediSave.
3. MediFund
An endowment fund set up by the government as a safety net for the needy. If you have depleted your MediSave and MediShield limits and still cannot pay, you can apply for MediFund assistance.
Integrated Shield Plans (IPs)
While MediShield Life is great, it is designed for "Class B2/C" wards (no air-con, shared room). If you want to stay in a Class A/B1 Ward or a Private Hospital, you need an "Integrated Shield Plan" (IP).
- What is it? An upgrade provided by private insurers (AIA, Prudential, Income, Great Eastern, Raffles, SingLife).
- Cost: You pay higher premiums. Part of it can be paid via MediSave, but the rest must be cash.
- Benefit: Shorter wait times, choice of doctor, air-conditioned rooms.
Understanding Ward Classes (A, B1, B2, C)
The price you pay depends heavily on the "Class" of ward you choose upon admission. This is a critical decision.
| Class | Amenities | Govt Subsidy (Citizens) |
|---|---|---|
| Class A | 1-bedder, Air-con, Private bathroom | 0% (Full Price) |
| Class B1 | 4-bedder, Air-con | 20% Subsidy |
| Class B2 | 6-bedder, Natural ventilation (Fan) | 50% - 65% Subsidy |
| Class C | 8-bedder, Open ward (Fan) | 65% - 80% Subsidy |
*Note: Permanent Residents (PRs) receive lower subsidies than Citizens.*
Healthcare for Foreigners (Expats)
If you are on an Employment Pass (EP), S-Pass, or Work Permit, you are NOT covered by MediShield Life or MediSave subsidies.
- Mandatory Employer Coverage: Employers must provide medical insurance for Work Permit and S-Pass holders (min coverage $60,000/year).
- EP Holders: Often get group insurance from their company, but it may be basic. Many expats buy their own "International Health Insurance" to access private hospitals like Mount Elizabeth or Gleneagles.
- Cost: Foreigners pay "Private Rates" even in public hospitals, which can be very expensive without insurance.
Polyclinics vs. CHAS Clinics (GP)
For minor illnesses (flu, cough), you have two choices:
1. Polyclinics (Government)
Cheapest option. Subsidized consultation fees (approx $14 for citizens). Wait times can be long. You usually need to book an appointment via the HealthHub app.
2. CHAS GP Clinics (Private)
Private clinics near your home. If you have a CHAS Card (Community Health Assist Scheme - Blue/Orange), you get subsidized rates here too. Faster and more convenient.
Find a Polyclinic or CHAS Clinic
Use the HealthHub or MOH directory to find the nearest facility.
HealthHub Directory
Locate Polyclinics, CHAS Clinics, and Public Hospitals near you.
Search HealthHub Directory →Check your MediSave balance on the CPF Portal.