Telemedicine in Singapore has seen rapid growth in Singapore post-COVID. Speedoc has announced a partnership with Parkway Shenton to expand its reach, hot on the heels of a successful round of Series B funding. M1 and Fullerton Health are even deploying telemedicine services for Singapore’s maritime sector powered by 5G connectivity. There are even trials of new telemedicine clinics that run all day and all night. There seems to be a lot of optimism surrounding online medical consultations, and various healthcare providers are following suit. But how can you fully take advantage of telemedicine in Singapore? Find out how below.

Table of Contents

• • • • How does telemedicine work?
      • How to prepare for telemedicine in Singapore?
        • 1. Choose the right platform
        • 2. Prepare Ahead of Time
        • 3. Find a Quiet and Private Space
        • 4. Test Equipment and Connectivity
        • 5. Dress Appropriately
        • 6. Be Transparent and Honest
        • 7. Payment and Insurance for Telemedicine in Singapore
      • Speedoc: Healthcare Made Easy

How does telemedicine work?

Nowadays, it’s as simple as downloading an app onto your phone or tablet, where you have video consultations with a medical professional. Some platforms, including Speedoc, even allow you to book a doctor visit or a nurse visit on their website, where you can get medical care when you need it. If you want to stay home when you’re sick, you can easily log into a telemedicine app to get a medical certificate for your illness. Rest assured, direct telemedicine providers have qualified doctors on their platforms so you’ll always be getting top-notch advice, all the while skipping the clinic queues.

How to prepare for telemedicine in Singapore?

Whether you’re a business traveller that needs constant medical attention, or a digital nomad that needs referral letters for medication, telemedicine in Singapore can help you with that. To make sure you have a successful and productive virtual consultation with your healthcare provider, here are some of the best practices that you can follow:

1. Choose the right platform

For minor ailments such as a sore throat or a cold, you can check out platforms like Speedoc, Minmed, and Whitecoat. The public sector is catching up too: eligible patients at the National University Health System can use the OneNUHS app,  the first telemedicine platform for public healthcare in Singapore.  If you need medical services outside of normal business hours, the Ministry of Health has a list of approved telemedicine providers who are able to provide telemedical services 24 hours every day. There are platforms that specifically focus on mental health too.

That said, not all medical conditions can be treated over video consultations. Chronic diseases and conditions with severe pain may still require in-person care for a more accurate diagnosis. Visit the A&E emergency medical department, or dial 995 for an ambulance immediately when you have a life-threatening condition that may require emergency attention, such as:

• Sudden onset of weakness, numbness, or slurred speech
• Head trauma
• Broken bones
• Severe burns
• Large open wounds
• Severe blood loss
• Choking
• Shortness of breath

2. Prepare Ahead of Time

While this isn’t a Zoom meeting for work or your classes, preparing ahead of time will go a long way to make sure your online consultations will always be fruitful. Think of a telemedicine appointment as if you were meeting your doctor face-to-face. So prepare for your consultation by gathering all necessary medical records, medications, and a detailed list of any symptoms you’re experiencing. Jot down any burning questions or nagging concerns you’ve got for your healthcare provider, and don’t forget to record the medical advice too.

3. Find a Quiet and Private Space

Choose a quiet and private location for the telemedicine consultation. If you’re home with your children at your Singapore condo rental, perhaps you can retreat to your bedroom so they won’t disrupt your call. To improve communication with your healthcare provider, try to reduce distractions and interruptions. A well-lit area and a stable internet connection are necessary for optimal video and audio quality, especially when you need to show skin rashes or any skin irritation to the doctor.

4. Test Equipment and Connectivity

While you may not be live-streaming a game, consultations through video call of course require your equipment and internet connection to be in top form so that you can stay focused. So make sure your device is ready to capture, listen, and speak! Check that your camera, microphone, and speakers are all in perfect working order. Also, test your internet connection to avoid any potential technical issues during the consultation. If you’re especially prepared, always have a backup device ready in case of any issues.

5. Dress Appropriately

While you may be at home, it is important to dress appropriately for your telemedicine consultation. That creates a professional environment, where you show your consideration and respect towards your healthcare provider’s time and expertise.

6. Be Transparent and Honest

To get the most effective advice, you need to openly communicate your medical history, current health status, and any symptoms you’re experiencing. This also applies when you need sexual health advice, where some may feel uncomfortable sharing certain details. That said, it’s best to stay honest, even if you haven’t been adhering to prescribed treatments and medications.

All that communication goes both ways. If you need more clarifications and details, you can always ask the medical care provider during the telemedicine session. Effective communication ensures that your healthcare provider understands your concerns and addresses them effectively.

7. Payment and Insurance for Telemedicine in Singapore

For most providers of telemedicine in Singapore, they often accept cashless payments, be it from debit cards or credit cards. Also, don’t forget that there are delivery charges for your medicine delivery on top of your prescription. Most of the time, you’ll get the payment details, along with your medical certificate, be it via email or within the platform.

When it comes to medical insurance, some insurance companies have partnered with the various telemedicine platforms in Singapore. If you’re working full-time in Singapore, you can check if your employer covers the cost of telehealth. Check with your insurance provider if they cover costs on the telemedicine platform you use.

Speedoc: Healthcare Made Easy

The future of healthcare is here. Receiving quality medical care should never be a hassle. You shouldn’t have to wait for hours at the hospital, nor figure out where, when, and how to get the right care.

With Speedoc, their end-to-end care system will connect you with qualified medical professionals, whether you need in-person or remote monitoring.

Enjoy partner rates with Speedoc today with these exclusive codes!

• MetroRes2023 – Book a health screening (from $90) or a food allergy test (from $183).
• MetroVIP2023 – Consult a doctor over a video consultation call for $11.88 only (via the Speedoc app)

Download Speedoc on iOS and Android devices today

Living in a swanky Singapore serviced apartment will only get you so far when it comes to mental wellness. Not knowing if rental rates will come down doesn’t help either. Ensuring your mental well-being is essential for a smooth and fulfilling experience as an expat living in Singapore. Due to the advancements in technology, online mental health services have become more accessible and convenient. Embark on a journey through the digital realm of mental wellness as we uncover the abundant array of online mental health services tailored specifically for expats in the vibrant city of Singapore. Discover the keys to unlocking your peace of mind while embracing your life abroad with the help of online mental health services in Singapore.

Table of Contents

• • • Mental Health Issues in Singapore
    • 3 Reasons Why Online Mental Health Can Help Expats
      • 1. Privacy and Comfort
      • 2. Flexibility
      • 3. Continuity of Care
    • 3 Types of Online Mental Health Services in Singapore
      • 1. Singapore-based Online Mental Health Services
      • 2. Virtual Therapy Platforms
      • 3. Online Support Groups and Communities
    • Are Online Mental Health Services Enough?
    • Does Insurance Cover Online Mental Health in Singapore?
    • Conclusion
    • Speedoc: Healthcare Made Easy
    • Mental Health Support Lines

Mental Health Issues in Singapore

Despite ongoing efforts to increase awareness and reduce stigma, mental health continues to be a sensitive topic in Singaporean society. Some people are hesitant to seek help because the fear of being labelled or judged.

While there are strides in the acceptance of mental illness, Singapore faces an uphill battle when it comes to youth mental health. According to Samaritans of Singapore, suicides in Singapore rose to their highest in over 20 Years in 2023. And a majority of mental health conditions remain untreated. A survey by NUS Medical School and the Institute of Mental Health reported that 64% of respondents have to pay an unplanned visit to hospital emergency departments or need in-patient medical services.

3 Reasons Why Online Mental Health Can Help Expats

1. Privacy and Comfort

With Singapore’s efficient public transportation, getting to a counselling psychologist or government healthcare facilities isn’t really a hassle. But even if access to healthcare systems isn’t a problem, the fear of judgement and stigma is. That’s why some turn to online mental health platforms first. Those platforms can offer anonymity and privacy, which can make it easier for some as they reach out for support.

In addition, having face-to-face interaction with a counsellor can be difficult for some. But patients can receive care for their mind health over the internet with these platforms, allowing expats to seek support without compromising their privacy, all from the comfort of their living spaces.

2. Flexibility

Frequent travel, irregular working hours, special events; the expat life can be exciting. So booking a session of traditional in-person therapy can be difficult because of scheduling conflicts. With online mental health services, expats can schedule their individual counselling services according to their own timings. This flexibility ensures that expats can prioritize their mental health while managing their unique lifestyles.

3. Continuity of Care

They don’t need to find a new therapist when they first move to Singapore if the healthcare provider in their home country has a telehealth option. Not to mention, finding a new therapist or counsellor isn’t always easy. With online therapy, they can continue their therapy with the same people they know and trust. This consistency gives expats one less thing to worry about as they adjust to a new life abroad.

3 Types of Online Mental Health Services in Singapore

Singapore is very much at the forefront of technology and innovation. Mental wellness in Singapore has certainly benefited from that. More and more groups are offering online mental health services. And some of them come from unexpected places.

1. Singapore-based Online Mental Health Services

This is perhaps the go-to choice for expats getting online therapy in Singapore. As much as they have excellent healthcare facilities, public hospitals and private hospitals have yet to offer online mental health services in Singapore at the time of writing. But there are several mental health institutions and private practices adapting to the digital landscape, where they offer online counselling sessions with their team of counsellors. Even renowned organisations are joining in, with the likes of the Institute of Mental Health, Samaritans of Singapore, and Singapore Counselling Centre offering various forms of online mental health services catered to expats through their team of psychologists.

There are plenty of options for LGBTQ+ expats too. One of the first options they can try is Oogachaga, a non-profit that works with LGBTQ+ persons in Singapore on issues such as sexuality, identity, relationships, mental health and sexual health. Besides professional counselling, Oogachaga provides Singapore’s only dedicated Whatsapp counselling service for the LGBTQ+ community, where they provide confidential emotional support. Their trained volunteers can also help through Email Counselling for those who prefer to express themselves in writing.

2. Virtual Therapy Platforms

You’ve probably heard of them in podcasts or on Youtube videos before. These online counselling platforms have risen in popularity and have expanded their reach across the world. Platforms like BetterHelp, Talkspace, and Teladoc Health offer online therapy with specialised licensed therapists. You can find a therapist that better suits your needs, be it depression or anxiety therapy.

3. Online Support Groups and Communities

Seeing a counsellor can still be daunting for some, even if it’s online therapy. But finding people who have similar experiences can help expats cope with mental illness. They can find a sense of belonging and support from online groups or Forums too. If you have a question about it, perhaps the askSingapore thread in Singapore can help too. People in that subreddit are mostly helpful (mostly).

There are even communities on Discord servers too: the Huddleverse server has about 40,000 members around the world. They maintain a strict approach in moderating the servers to help members feel safe—ithey’ve already banned about 3,00 users. Discord servers are often preferred as the platform itself already has safeguards in place. The vast majority of its servers are invite-only and private, and it also has a filter that helps moderate explicit or sensitive content on its platform.

Are Online Mental Health Services Enough?

Online mental health platforms often market convenience and happiness in a snap of your fingers. While for some these services and platforms can be easy and effective, these coping methods can stop working. By their very nature, online mental health services aren’t conducive for therapists to utilise their skill, tact and patience necessary for helping patients with their mental health conditions. Plus, there is also the question of privacy and confidentiality in online mental health treatments.

After all, when online therapy opens a can of worms, it can be difficult to contain it. While some say that is better than no treatment at all, studies of therapeutic effectiveness have shown that the quality of the relationship between a person and their therapist is an important variable for successful treatment.

Trained therapists are skilled at recognising and addressing emerging patterns, working together with you to explore them. The outcome is a live, personal encounter with someone who can assist you in replacing harmful habits with healthier ones. However, developing relationships takes time. So an online encounter that is relatively anonymous might not be able to replicate the beneficial aspects of a caring therapeutic relationship.

That said, there is still a need for a holistic approach towards treating mental health. And that involves a range of interventions, including in-person therapy, medication management, support groups, lifestyle changes, and self-care practices. Combining these different approaches with online mental health services can offer more comprehensive treatment for mental health conditions.

Does Insurance Cover Online Mental Health in Singapore?

While most private healthcare insurance benefits cover a lot of health conditions, mental health still isn’t widely covered. While the Medishield Life Council has recommended extending coverage for attempted suicide, self-inflicted injury, drug addiction and alcoholism, there is still a long way to go.

Medical costs for mental healthcare remain expensive. In Singapore’s healthcare system, subsidised counselling session costs around S$30 to S$50 per session, and psychiatric medication may cost upwards of S$100. Therapy sessions for private healthcare may cost up to $150 or more. So the costs can get pretty high for expats since they cannot get insured by the national health insurance scheme.

Studies conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO) have found that the absence of insurance coverage is a major contributing factor in the delay of accessing treatment across different countries. But for Singapore, things may be changing.

Expats can look to private health insurance coverage for mental health from AIA. AIA became Singapore’s first insurer to cover mental health conditions with the AIA Beyond Critical Care Insurance Plan. Under the plan, A total of 5 claims may be made for all covered mental illnesses, with each claim capped at S$50,000 for a covered mental illness. Though each claim is subject to a waiting period of 3 years. And, the total amount payable to you for all covered mental illnesses under AIA Beyond Critical Care and all other policies issued by AIA is limited to S$150,000.

Raffles Health Insurance, together with Bupa Global allows you the option of covering mental health in your health insurance plan. They offer direct access to specialist care globally, allowing you to access medical treatments whether you’re at home or abroad.

Great Eastern offers three medical insurance plans that provide mental health coverage. The GREAT CareShield Advantage plan offers an initial lump sum payout for mental health conditions that result in the inability to perform at least one activity of daily living, such as dressing and feeding. The Pay Assure plan provides coverage for customers who cannot work in their current job due to illness, including mental illness or injury. The GREAT Family Care plan offers the option to add a rider for their parents, covering conditions like severe dementia and Alzheimer’s disease without requiring medical underwriting.

Conclusion

Online mental health services offer expats in Singapore a convenient and accessible option to begin treatment for their mental health conditions effectively. Even so, there’s a need to recognise their limitations. Online therapy may not substitute in-person therapy or meet all mental health needs, especially in times of crisis.

By combining different modalities and considering individual preferences and needs, expats can access a well-rounded medical care experience that best supports their overall well-being, at home and abroad.

Speedoc: Healthcare Made Easy

This article is produced in collaboration with Speedoc.

At Speedoc, they believe receiving quality medical care should never be a hassle. You shouldn’t have to wait for hours at the hospital, nor figure out where, when, and how to get the right care.

With Speedoc, their end-to-end care system will connect you with qualified medical professionals, whether you need in-person or remote monitoring.

Enjoy partner rates with Speedoc today with these exclusive codes!

• MetroRes2023 – Book a health screening (from $90) or a food allergy test (from $183).
• MetroVIP2023 – Consult a doctor over a video consultation call for $11.88 only (via the Speedoc app)

Download Speedoc on iOS and Android devices today.

Mental Health Support Lines

If you’ve been affected by this story, or if you need any kind of help with your mental health, don’t hesitate to reach out for counselling services. Here are some of the people you can contact:

• Samaritans of Singapore

24-hour Hotline: 1767

24-hour CareText (WhatsApp): 9151 1767

• Singapore Association for Mental Health

Telephone: +65 6255 3222

Toll-Free Helpline: 1800-283-7019

• Institute of Mental Health

24-hour mainline: +65 6389 2000

• National Care Hotline:

1800-202-6868 (8am – 8pm)

About the Writer: Benedict Lim

As the resident punmaker, Benedict is really bad at making people laugh. They’re much better at diving into the nuances of the things they write about.

Picture travelling to a beautiful new country, with access to world-class medical facilities and the best-trained medical professionals; Singapore has become a popular destination for medical tourism due to its ease of access to many hospitals and facilities across the city. Still, finding suitable accommodations for medical tourists can be a challenge, especially if extended stays are necessary. In this article, we will explore the benefits of staying in serviced apartments for medical tourists in Singapore.

Table of Contents

• • Medical Tourism in Singapore
  • Singapore Serviced Apartments for Medical Tourists: Flexibility and Convenience
  • Privacy and Comfort
  • Cost-Effective Accommodation
  • Find Comfort in Singapore Serviced Apartments
  • MetroResidences Singapore Serviced Apartments—Your Home Base for Travels Beyond

Medical Tourism in Singapore

The medical tourism industry is booming due to the cost of medical procedures in other countries. Typically, the cost of treatment is high with inadequate care for most of the world. A medical tourist example would be someone travelling from the United States to Singapore to receive heart surgery. The cost of that surgery in the United States would run the patient $130,000 versus them paying $18,000 for that same surgery in Singapore. 

Singapore is known for its world-class healthcare system that services all types of medical needs. Below is a list of the major hospitals and healthcare facilities in Singapore: 

• Mount Elizabeth Hospital
• Singapore General Hospital 
• Farrer Park Hospital
•  KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital
• Gleneagles Hospital 
• National Skin Centre 
• National Cancer Centre Singapore 
• National Heart Centre 
• Tan Tock Seng Hospital 
• National University Hospital 

Surrounding these facilities are different housing options, but the most cost-effective for long-term stays in Singapore are serviced apartments. This option allows you to feel like you are home away from home while receiving the best medical treatment. Serviced apartments are strategically spread across Singapore making it easier for medical tourists to receive care, especially for those who require frequent medical attention.  

Apartment rental in Singapore can seem daunting, especially if you are travelling from a foreign country. Companies like MetroResidences make the process of securing a serviced apartment hassle-free and offer fully-furnished living spaces. 

Singapore Serviced Apartments for Medical Tourists: Flexibility and Convenience

Staying in Singapore serviced apartments offers the same at-home feeling with the ability to cook your own meals in a fully equipped kitchen and do laundry in unit. Not only do serviced apartments offer a full living experience, but you also have amenities such as a sparkling pool to relax in, a gym, and free Wi-Fi; you will have no worries other than recovering from your medical treatment.  

If you’re traveling as a family and unsure about the space available, serviced apartments offer two- or three-bedroom rentals as well. This gives more options to medical tourists, and you may even be able to score a family vacation out of the deal. 

The number of medical tourists in Singapore are increasing every year and so are the number of serviced apartments. This type of housing allows for special requests by medical tourists, such as being able to provide medical equipment or arrange transportation, which is especially helpful for those travelling from foreign countries with no way to get around. 

Another added benefit of staying in a serviced apartment are the flexible lease options. With the increase of digital nomads and medical tourists travelling from all over the world, it’s important to have options if travel plans change. Companies like Metro Residences offer lease options for any situation. Need to stay longer? Just ask for an extension! 

Privacy and Comfort

Staying in Singapore serviced apartments offers the same at-home feeling with the ability to cook your own meals in a fully equipped kitchen and do laundry in unit. Not only do serviced apartments offer a full living experience, but you also have amenities such as a sparkling pool to relax in, a gym, and free Wi-Fi; you will have no worries other than recovering from your medical treatment.  

If you’re traveling as a family and unsure about the space available, serviced apartments offer two- or three-bedroom rentals as well. This gives more options to medical tourists, and you may even be able to score a family vacation out of the deal. 

The number of medical tourists in Singapore are increasing every year and so are the number of serviced apartments. This type of housing allows for special requests by medical tourists, such as being able to provide medical equipment or arrange transportation, which is especially helpful for those travelling from foreign countries with no way to get around. 

Another added benefit of staying in a serviced apartment are the flexible lease options. With the increase of digital nomads and medical tourists travelling from all over the world, it’s important to have options if travel plans change. Companies like Metro Residences offer lease options for any situation. Need to stay longer? Just ask for an extension! 

Cost-Effective Accommodation

Staying in a serviced apartment compared to a traditional hotel will save you money and offer you more for your dollar. With Singapore being one of the more expensive countries to live in and travel to, often hotels will reflect this. This means you may end up spending more on a traditional hotel room where you may not get a fully equipped kitchen or the benefit of medical transportation. Hotels may not be the best accommodations for medical tourists who require extended stays for this reason. Some serviced apartments will require a minimum stay of at least 3 months, with the option to extend, if additional time is needed. This removes the worry of potentially not being able to book the same room for the entire duration of your stay. 

You can also save money by staying in a co-living serviced apartment rather than having the whole place to yourself. This is a great option for those who don’t mind shared spaces such as the laundry or kitchen and are okay with potentially making a new friend! Co-living serviced apartments are cost-effective and offer the same great lease flexibility. 

Find Comfort in Singapore Serviced Apartments

Medical tourists can enjoy a hassle-free stay in serviced apartments while receiving top-notch care by highly trained medical professionals in Singapore. Before making the decision to receive care at any of the best medical tourism hospitals, be sure to check if you will need tourist visa medical insurance. 

Once you have your treatment plans in place, the next step is finding a serviced apartment that fits your needs. MetroResidences offers the perfect solution with beautifully furnished units, amenities that will dazzle you, and the best customer care. 

MetroResidences Singapore Serviced Apartments—Your Home Base for Travels Beyond

Looking for your home away from home? Our Singapore apartment rentals and serviced apartments are perfect for a longer period of stay. We have properties in luxury developments across Singapore’s most coveted addresses: Bugis, Bukit Timah, Shenton Way, and Novena.

And, you can rest easy at any of our properties. We adhere to our strict Property Standards that account for the comfort and cleanliness of all our serviced apartments. Our fully-furnished apartments come with amenities like wi-fi, air conditioners, and a fully-equipped kitchen.

Whether you’re a business traveller or a digital nomad, no one wants to get sick abroad. But it happens, especially considering the spectre of COVID-19. After all, people who experience mild or moderate illness can still experience severe long-term symptoms. Getting sick abroad can be disorientating, even if it’s all spick-and-span in Singapore. You have to figure out what kind of medical assistance you should have, or whether your insurance company can cover the medical expenses. Every business trip nowadays is a game of Russian roulette—you never know what could happen. Whether you’re reading this before you take off, or just beginning to feel under the weather, we’ve got you covered when you’re a sick foreigner in Singapore.

Table of Contents

• • • Pack the Basics
      • What to do when you get sick in Singapore?
      • The Telehealth Way
        
        • Where to get medicine as a sick foreigner in Singapore?
          • 1. Pharmacies
          • 2. Polyclinics
          • 3. General Practitioners (Private Clinics)
          • 4. Hospitals
      • Is healthcare free in Singapore? How can I pay my medical bills in Singapore?
      • Facing the Cons of Singapore’s Healthcare System
      • Apartment Rentals in Singapore with Nearby Amenities

Pack the Basics

If you fail to plan, you plan to fail. Keep your travel plans on track by packing along all the medication you may need. Some business travelers would already know what to pack by heart: Tylenol, Advil, antihistamines—just the basics that could counter mild issues like migraines or fevers. 

Don’t know where to start? You can check out America’s Centres for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Travel Health site. It has a really nifty list of what you should be packing. As you pack, consider getting medicine for various types of common travel-related illnesses, such as typhoid, STDs, and gonorrhoea.

Don’t forget all the allergy medication you’re on too! Then you can save on an overseas doctor’s visit or a desperate search for a pharmacy when your allergies act up. If you’re still worried about the pandemic, you can look to the comprehensive COVID-19 resources by the Singapore government.

What to do when you get sick in Singapore?

Thankfully, COVID-19 restrictions are mostly lifted in Singapore. So if it’s just a sniffle and you want to power through it at work or have a business meeting that you can’t just miss, you can go ahead and return to the office. On the other hand, if you do need a couple of days’ rest, here’s what you need to do:

1. Simply apply for sick leave with your employer. Most employers are now using online human resources management systems
2. Head to your doctor’s or rest at home (if your employer permits)
3. Don’t forget to get a copy of the medical certificate for your office!
4. If your employment contract covers some medical costs, you can take the receipt of your doctor’s visit and claim the expense

The Telehealth Way

Zoom is really taking over our lives. Online medical consultants aren’t just for supervised COVID-19 tests anymore. With the wonders of technology, you can easily get a medical consultation right in the comfort of your living room. Besides getting a diagnosis and a prescription, most telehealth apps such as WhiteCoat & Speedoc can also provide a digital medical certificate for when your employer needs a record. Of course, you can’t get an online consultation just to get the digital medical certificate to get a couple of days off and stay snug in your studio for rent in Singapore. You can’t just do that, right?

Where to get medicine as a sick foreigner in Singapore?

1. Pharmacies

You can just find a pharmacy near your Singapore apartment rental or serviced apartments if you’re only having a cold or a migraine. You can easily find plenty of pharmacies and drugstore chains in your nearest heartland mall, after all. You already know the names: Guardian, Watson’s, and Welcia BHG. Don’t forget about Unity Pharmacy, the retail pharmacy chain by NTUC Fairprice.

2. Polyclinics

You could also consider heading to the polyclinics located throughout the city. There’s usually one for every district in Singapore. They are ‘one-stop’ healthcare centres, providing a wide range of subsidised primary care. However, only Singaporean citizens and permanent residents may enjoy the subsidised cost. Polyclinics are run by 3 healthcare operators: ​National Healthcare Group Polyclinics (NHGP), ​National University Polyclinics (NUP), and ​​SingHealth Polyclinics (SHP).

3. General Practitioners (Private Clinics)

But there are days when you’ll be feeling especially under the weather and need medical attention from a healthcare professional or physician. Most of the time, you’d be heading to a general practitioner (GP) for your medical and healthcare needs. There are a couple of private healthcare groups in Singapore you can visit for a health check-up:

• Fullerton Health
• IHH Healthcare Singapore
• Raffles Medical Group
• Thomson Medical
• Healthway Medical
• Minmed

Most of the healthcare groups in Singapore are located within shopping malls. If you’re too unwell to travel far from your Singapore apartment rental, look for medical care at independent clinics. They are usually situated in shophouses or neighbourhood shopping malls. You needn’t worry about the standards of sanitation for these clinics too! They’re just as clean as any other clinic.

If you need specialised help with a medical condition, local GPs can get referrals to specialist healthcare. Though it’d help if you research beforehand so you can find the right specialist for your needs. And it’s not just about the medical expertise—you could need a specialist who can communicate in your native language, or is more knowledgeable about queer experiences.

4. Hospitals

There are plenty of options when it comes to Singapore’s hospitals. They’re fully equipped with state-of-the-art medical facilities. Some of them are publicly funded or not-for-profit, and others are privately-run. Besides getting medical care, you can refill your prescription medicine at Singapore’s hospitals too.

There are more types of medical treatment available at both kinds of hospitals. But, like the GPs above, the medical expenses incurred are dependent on your citizen status.

Is healthcare free in Singapore? How can I pay my medical bills in Singapore?

Many call Singapore a nanny state, but it does come with its own perks—so long as you’re a Singaporean citizen or permanent resident. In essence, Singapore’s healthcare system works like Medicare in the United States. Citizens and permanent residents support the system with their monthly Medisave contributions. The contributions are part of their monthly pension contributions (the Central Provident Fund, CPF), where a portion of their wages are deposited automatically every month.

But for the rest of us, we’d have to pay our medical bills in full when we’re at the clinic. In addition to cash payments, most clinics accept digital and credit card payments.

If you’re a foreigner working full-time in Singapore, your employer might cover some of your expenses. Most employment contracts also cover part of the hospitalisation cost, should the need arise.

Facing the Cons of Singapore’s Healthcare System

So if you’re a business traveller or a digital nomad planning to stay in Singapore for a longer period, you might want to consider signing up for a medical insurance policy. No one wants to get hospitalised, but luck doesn’t work that way. Major illness or acute illness can happen to anyone. Not to mention, without help from government subsidies, hospital admission at public hospitals can cost as much as private hospitals.

With medical insurance, you can cover some or even all of the hospital bills and medical costs. Most policies allow for a personal injury claim for when you get into an accident. That way, you don’t need to ask for funds from your family when you’re facing a medical emergency. However, you do need to do some homework on whether the insurance policy covers pre-existing medical conditions.

If you’re just here on a business trip or a vacation instead, you may want to think about taking up a travel insurance plan. You’d have to get a plan that covers the duration of your trip. It’s not just about getting compensation for travel delays anymore. Most travel insurers now do offer medical insurance as part of the travel insurance policies they provide for international travellers.

Apartment Rentals in Singapore with Nearby Amenities

Emergencies come at times we least expect. Knowing what to do and which appropriate channel to reach out to can sometimes be the difference between life and death. But what happens when you’re overseas? Is the process any different from the emergency ambulance services at home? 

“What’s the Singapore ambulance number?”

“Isn’t there only one Singapore ambulance number?”

Many of us on the tiny island of Singapore aren’t fully aware of the emergency and non-emergency numbers/ambulances available. Be it, locals or foreign travellers,  it’s important to know the right channels to contact depending on the emergency situation at hand to receive the best emergency medical service.

So if you’re here on business or holiday, here’s what you need to know about Singapore emergency hotlines, what other home medical services are out there and the convenience of house call doctors – you need to know what Singapore emergency number to call!

• • How do I assess an emergency? 
  • What emergency hotlines can I contact?
  • What is a non-emergency situation?
  • What are the non-emergency hotlines (or channels) I can contact?
  • How to better prepare myself

How do I assess an emergency?

So what does an emergency really mean? Although it might seem obvious, it can be tricky when assessing different situations. Let’s break it down; here are some general instances when you should call an emergency ambulance:

• Someone is unconscious or experiencing severe dizziness
• Can’t breathe or are choking
• Severe chest pains
• Broken bones
• Deep cuts causing a massive loss of blood
• Head injuries
• Injuries to your spine or neck
• Fall from heights
• Poisoning
• Severe allergies
• Someone is drowning
• Severe scalding and burns
  

What emergency hotlines can I contact?

If you are in a situation where someone is experiencing any of the above-mentioned examples, call 995 immediately! Calling 995 will connect you to a Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) ambulance. These emergency ambulance services will bring the patient to the nearest public hospital and/or restructured hospital.

What is a non-emergency situation?

The same goes for non-emergency situations. Why is it important to know the difference? 

Well, first of all, you will be charged $274 for requesting an emergency ambulance to tend to a non-emergency call. Also, misuse of SCDF emergency ambulances is a waste of resources; there might be someone else in a much dire situation that could have used that ambulance instead of you!

So, if you have the following ailments or medical situations that require medical attention, perhaps consider calling a non-emergency ambulance instead:

• Toothache or mild headache
• Gastric pains
• Mild fever
• Long term pains
• Small cuts and bruises
• Medical check-ups/follow-ups

What non-emergency hotlines can I contact?

To request an ambulance that best suits your needs in such situations, call 1777 for a Private Ambulance. Do note that you will be charged for this service and the extent of this price is based on the case. 

However, you can expect a long wait when requesting one. Luckily, there are services out there to help you with this hassle. One service you can look to is Speedoc. Patients can tap an app for on-demand private ambulance services in non-emergency cases It’s as simple as booking a private-hire car.

With the ambulance-hailing feature on the Speedoc app (Speedoc app is the first ambulance-booking app in Singapore!), users who need a private ambulance for non-emergency cases, don’t have to call over 20 operators individually or the 1777 hotline and wait for as long as two hours, for confirmation.

Requests made via the app can significantly cut down your waiting time to only around 30 minutes. Users can request for private ambulances for transport to healthcare institutions in Singapore including hospitals, nursing homes, and hospices.

Speedoc ambulance booking service includes:

• Transport to hospital
• Transport home after discharge
• Scheduled medical transport

The cost of calling a private ambulance via the app can range from $120 to $170, depending on the location, time of day and demand. In comparison, typical booking fees for a private ambulance can be from about $50 to $130 just for a one-way trip.

What non-emergency hotlines can I contact?

Healthcare institutes and neighbourhood clinics in Singapore are infamous for their winding long queues and extended waiting times. It’s the last thing anyone ill would want to face when wanting to see the doctor. So why not bring the doctor to you?

House-call medical services on demand by Speedoc helps you to cut out the travel and waiting time it takes to visit a GP (general practitioner) and get the medical consultation you need right to your doorstep in a shorter amount of time, 24/7; all in the comfort of your apartment.

This article is brought to you by Speedoc and MetroResidences

About Speedoc

Speedoc was founded in 2017 in Singapore, with a mission to prove that medical care need not be a lengthy, cumbersome experience. With the ageing population to address and improved access to technology, Speedoc built a complete end-to-end system for doctors and patients, so that house call doctor services can be provided with ease and minimal burden to people in the community. 

With Speedoc, home medical services need not be limited to only immobile patients, but to everyday people who may require GP or A&E visits for themselves or their loved ones. For more information, please visit https://www.speedoc.com/, or download the app on the App Store and Google Play.

The stress from work and living in a foreign environment may lead to the weakening of the immune system, making one more susceptible to infections and catching the cold bug. Our immune system gets stronger when we pair up environmental protection with healthy lifestyle habits. And what’s a better place to start than in your own serviced apartment?

In this article, we give you five household hacks and lifestyle changes that can keep your body’s defense mechanism in check.

1. Have Enough Sleep

A lack of sleep can cause inflammation, lower your antibodies and decrease your resistance to infection. Be sure to have at least eight hours of sleep daily to keep your bodily functions running optimally.

2. Stay hydrated

Are you drinking enough water? Adequate hydration benefits your immune system by flushing out toxins and ensuring your body gets the oxygen it needs to function well. So don’t forget to drink at least eight glasses of water a day.

3. Exercise Hacks

There’s a heap of home exercises you can do to build your immune system and get your blood pumping. These include yoga, pilates or static exercises such as sit-ups, squats, planks and wall-sits. If you live in a high-rise building, try taking the stairs instead of the lifts. Better yet, if you have a gym within your serviced apartment compound, make full use of it!