Health care in Singapore
Singapore has one of the best health care facilities in Southeast Asia. Both private and public hospitals are well equipped, manned by trained staff and efficiently compete with each other. The competition between the two has helped keep the cost of health care reasonable.
Make sure you have adequate health insurance. The difference between what Singaporeans pay for health care and what foreigners pay is about 30%. This is why sufficient health cover for expatriates becomes even more pertinent.
Hospitals & Clinics
Singapore has 13 private hospitals and 10 public hospitals. The range of specializations offered includes excellent eye care and dental care facilities. Those in need of hospitalization can opt for different kinds of rooms each of which comes with a separate set of facilities and price tag.This is especially the case in private hospitals where patients can opt for a room with single bed, two beds or four beds.
There is no difference in the quality of service provided by private and public hospitals. The cost of health care in private hospitals however is higher.
Doctors
Singapore's medical facilities are manned by qualified medical practitioners, in noth the private and public sector, many of whom have been trained abroad. Dentists and eye specialists offering the latest medical treatments at competitive prices can be found at least six specialized institutions in Singapore.
Pharmacies
You can purchase medicines from supermarkets or pharmacies across Singapore. Business hours are 9 am to 6 pm and in some cases pharmacies are open until 10 pm.
If you go with a prescription from your home country, it is unlikely that medicines will be dispensed by a Singaporean pharmacy. It is best that you visit a local doctor with your prescription and see if you could get the same prescription or a similar one there.
Emergency Numbers
Fire/Ambulance: 995
Police: 999
24-hour Emergency Road Service - 748 9911
In Case of an Emergency
In case of an emergency you can always head to the Accident and Emergency Departments of public hospitals. These sections function round the clock and are manned by well trained doctors and nurses. Some hospitals you can contact are:
National University Hospital 67 795 555
Singapore General Hospital 62 245 484
Changi General Hospital 67 888 833
Tan Tock Seng 62 566 011
Ang Mo Kio Community Hospital 64 538 033
Common Health Risks
Before moving to Singapore ensure that you get vaccinations for Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, Japanese Encephalitis, Measles, Mumps, Diphtheria, Rubella, Pertussis (whooping cough), Tetanus and Polio. Most diseases are spread through insect bites due to which use of mosquito nets and insect repellents is advised. The climate is very humid and it could take some getting used to. Meanwhile stay hydrated and avoid long hours in the sun.
