The healthcare system of Singapore functions as the medical and healthcare hub in the Asia Pacific region. The Singapore healthcare system is also highly regarded because it has the latest clinical and medical research to support the demands of an effective healthcare system.
For those who want to get a work permit renewal medical check up, the country provides world-class healthcare facilities and services to both international patients and its citizens. This makes getting a work permit renewal medical check up easy and stress-free. No wonder the healthcare system is very popular among the expats.
The country’s healthcare system has been ranked consistently as one of the world’s best, in terms of the quality of the services provided and accessibility. In 2016, Singapore was ranked number one in terms of healthcare readiness. It also meets the United Nations health goals.
Understandably, one of the most important considerations when moving or working in another country is easy access to medical care. Below are other basics to consider:
- Eligibility for financial support and how the application process is done
- Location of the nearest hospital/pharmacy/clinic from where you live
- Medical services that are available nearby
- Possible government subsidies and if you are qualified to get them
The Singapore Healthcare System: Different Services Provided
Ministry of Health (MOH)
The Ministry of Health is considered the presiding healthcare body of the country. MOH formulates the required policies for the regulation and development of all products and services that are related to healthcare. It also helps ensure that all individuals will have easy access to essential healthcare services.
The Ministry of Health also helps warrant that healthcare services and products are of top quality, affordable, and easily accessible. MOH also focuses on providing an integrated and personalized approach to cater to various healthcare needs. Its ultimate goal is to promote an active and healthy lifestyle among the citizens.
Singapore’s Public Healthcare
Singapore’s public healthcare system has three primary clusters: SingHealth, National Healthcare Group (NHG), and National University Health System (NUHS). The three clusters work closely with the Ministry of Health to ensure the best healthcare services are provided to all citizens of the country.
Under the NUHS, there are 12 medical facilities that are tasked to cover Singapore’s West side. Under NHG, there are also 12 medical facilities, including the only psychiatric hospital in the country. Lastly, 11 public hospitals are under SingHealth. This also includes all the community polyclinics located across the country.
Singapore’s Private Healthcare
Despite the cost, Singapore’s private healthcare has become a highly popular option among locals. Several factors have contributed to the popularity of Singapore’s private healthcare including luxurious wards and short waiting times. Singapore hospitals also focus on customized patient-doctor relationships.
Non-PR expats are not considered eligible for government healthcare subsidies. It is therefore crucial that expats have private health insurance to cover costly medical fees. One of the best benefits of private healthcare is the speed of medical attention and treatment provided.
Unlike public healthcare, patients can receive instant medical attention. Compared to other countries in the world, the waiting time is considered very short. On average the waiting time is around one to three hours. In private hospitals, the waiting time for admissions is not more than an hour.
If you intend to work in Singapore, check if your employer will offer some form of medical coverage for you and your dependents. You need to also know that maximum coverage you can get as well as any international coverage you and your family might be required to get.
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