Healthcare System in Singapore: everything you need to know

How does the healthcare system work in Singapore?

Singapore enjoys one of the best healthcare systems in the world. It provides high quality healthcare to its citizens and permanent residents. The quality of healthcare is reflected in the fact that they have one of the highest average life expectancy in the world.

The system is financed by government and employee contributions to the Medisave program which is between 7 and 9.5% of their salary. This is the first layer of protection, mandatory for all citizens. It is the first of the so-called 3 M's that make up the system.

The next layer is Medishield, which is not mandatory, however a large part of the citizenship chooses it since it is a national catastrophic insurance. This program covers everything that the first layer, Medisave, does not cover for one year.

Finally, there is Medifund, financed entirely by the government, which serves to cover medical expenses for those without the ability to pay.

There is also a private health system which offers more comfortable, better quality health centers with reduced waiting times. The services offered by these institutions have a higher cost, however they offer variations, such as shared rooms to make care more accessible to all citizens. 

How does the system work for foreigners?

The healthcare system does not cover foreigners, not even those who are living in Singapore for an indefinite period of time. To qualify as a "permanent resident" you have to live in Singapore for many years and then submit an application to the Ministry of Manpower, and it is not easy to be approved.

Therefore, whenever you travel to Singapore you should always have an independent health insurance to cover you for any emergency. If you are going on vacation, travel insurance is sufficient for the occasion. However, if you are going to reside in Singapore for an extended period of time, the best option is to hire international health insurance. This will give you all the health benefits and can be renewed on an annual basis.

To see the best options for travel insurance and international health insurance, visit InternationalHealth.com. There you can compare, quote and purchase online the best health insurance for your trip to Singapore. 

What do I do if I have an emergency in Singapore?

The local emergency line is 995. If it is a medical emergency, the ambulance service is free of charge. However, if you are calling for a medical problem that does not involve a major risk, you will be charged for the service.

If you need medical attention but it is not an emergency, you can call 1777. 

How do pharmacies in Singapore operate?

Pharmacies in Singapore do not accept prescriptions written by foreign doctors. Your doctor should write a prescription detailing your treatment and medication. You should then make an appointment with a local doctor who can write you a valid prescription that you can use at local pharmacies. Similarly, if the medication you are taking is not available, the local doctor will be able to prescribe an equivalent medication.

Pharmacies are not open 24 hours a day. If you need a medication after 9:00 p.m., you should go to a hospital where they will be able to give you the corresponding medication.

Over-the-counter medications can also be purchased in supermarkets. 

Entry requirements

If you have been in any country at risk of yellow fever according to the World Health Organization 6 days prior to your entry into Singapore, you must show a certificate of vaccination.

You must show a valid vaccination certificate translated into English when entering the country.

In the following link you can check if you require a visa to enter Singapore and also fill out the health declaration up to 3 days before your arrival.