Regular health screenings are an essential part of preventive healthcare, allowing for early detection and management of potential health issues. In Singapore, a variety of health screening options are available to suit different needs and budgets.
This comprehensive guide will explore the importance of health screening, various packages available, costs, and frequently asked questions to help you make informed decisions about your health.
What is health screening and why is it important?
Health screening is important for several reasons:
Early detection of health issues
Regular health screenings can help identify potential health problems before they become serious. Early detection often leads to more effective treatment and better health outcomes.
Monitoring overall health
Screenings provide valuable insights into your current health status, allowing you to track changes over time and make informed decisions about your lifestyle and healthcare.
Prevention of chronic diseases
Many chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, can be prevented or managed more effectively when detected early through screening.
How often should health screening be done?
The recommended frequency of health screening varies based on age, gender, and individual risk factors. Here are some general guidelines:
Adults aged 18-39
Basic health screening every 2-3 years
Annual blood pressure checks
Cholesterol test every 5 years
Adults aged 40-49
Basic health screening every 1-2 years
Annual blood pressure checks
Cholesterol check every 2-5 years
Blood sugar test every 3 years
Colon cancer screening starting at age 45 (every 10 years for colonoscopy)
Adults aged 50 and above
Annual health screening
Annual blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar tests
Colon cancer screening every 1-10 years depending on method
Bone density test every 5 years
Hearing test every 10 years
Additional screenings for women
Cervical cancer screening every 3-5 years for women 25-69
Mammogram every 2 years for women 50-69
Important considerations
Your doctor may recommend different screening intervals based on:
Your personal health history
Family medical background
Existing health conditions
Lifestyle factors
- Current health status
Health screening packages in Singapore
Different screening packages are often tailored to suit different needs. Some common health screening features include checking your blood pressure or BMI, conducting blood tests, urine analysis, kidney tests, liver function tests and cancer markers (where applicable.)
Basic health screening
Basic packages typically include tests for common health indicators such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood glucose.
Comprehensive health screening
These packages offer a more thorough assessment, including additional tests like full blood count, liver and kidney function tests, and cancer markers.
Specialised screening
Targeted screenings focus on specific health concerns or demographics, such as women's health, men's health, or cardiovascular health.
Executive health screening
Executive packages often include more extensive tests and may offer additional services like same-day results or personalised health coaching.
Learn more about Thomson Medical’s health screening packages here.
How much does a medical check-up cost in Singapore?
The Singapore government offers subsidised screening programmes to make health screening more accessible to citizens.
$5 health screening package in Singapore
The Screen for Life programme provides eligible Singaporeans with subsidised health screening at just $5 or less, depending on citizenship status and age.
Private health screening costs
Private health screening packages in Singapore can range from about $50 for basic screenings to over $1,000 for comprehensive executive health screenings.
Factors affecting costs
The cost of health screening can vary based on factors such as the type and number of tests included, the healthcare provider, and any additional services offered.
Where to get health screening in Singapore?
There are several options for getting health screening in Singapore:
Polyclinics and CHAS GP Clinics
These offer subsidised health screening under the national Screen for Life program. Eligible Singaporeans can get basic health screening for as low as $0-$5.
Private clinics
Many private clinics offer health screening packages, with prices typically ranging from around $50 to $500+.
Hospitals
Both public and private hospitals provide comprehensive health screening services:
Public hospitals like Singapore General Hospital, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, and National University Hospital offer packages ranging from about $218 to $815.
Private hospitals also provide tailored health screening packages.
Specialised health screening centres
Thomson Specialists (Paragon) has packages from $398 to $3,188.
Parkway Shenton offers packages ranging from $115 to over $6,000.
LifeScan Medical Centre has packages from $148 to over $3,000.
Home-based health screening
Some providers like Whitecoat, Speedoc, and Minmed offer health screening services at your preferred address.
When planning your preventive healthcare, several key factors should guide your decisions: your age, gender, family medical history, and any specific health concerns you may have. A proper medical consultation can help determine which screening tests would be most beneficial for your circumstances.
Our healthcare professionals at Thomson Medical can provide guidance on appropriate screening tests based on medical guidelines and your individual health profile. We understand the importance of making well-informed decisions about your preventive healthcare and are here to support you through the process. Request an appointment with Thomson Medical to discuss a health screening programme suited to your medical needs.
What to expect during your health screening?
Before your screening
Follow any fasting instructions provided by your healthcare team
Wear comfortable clothing
Bring your medical records and current medication list
Get adequate rest the night before
During your screening
The healthcare team will guide you through:
Registration and consultation
Physical examination
Collection of blood and urine samples
Additional tests as recommended by your doctor
Health education and lifestyle guidance
Your doctor may recommend various tests based on your health profile:
Essential health checks
Height, weight, and BMI measurement
Blood pressure monitoring
Blood glucose assessment
Cholesterol level testing
Urine analysis
Basic physical examination
Additional health assessments - based on your age, gender, and health factors, your doctor may recommend:
Heart health evaluation
Kidney function assessment
Liver function testing
Thyroid screening
Vision check
Age and gender-appropriate cancer screening
After your screening
Review of results with your healthcare provider
Discussion of health recommendations
Development of personalised health plan
Scheduling of any necessary follow-up care
Thomson Medical health screening
At Thomson Medical, we understand that preventive healthcare is essential for your wellbeing. Our comprehensive health screening programmes are conducted by experienced healthcare professionals in a comfortable, modern environment.
Following your health screening, we provide detailed consultation to discuss your results and offer personalised health recommendations. Our screening centre at Paragon is equipped with advanced diagnostic facilities to deliver thorough health evaluations.
Book your health screening today.
FAQ
What is the $5 health screening package in Singapore?
The $5 health screening package refers to the subsidised screening offered under the Screen for Life programme. Eligible Singaporeans can receive basic health screening tests, including checks for diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol, for just $5 or less, depending on their citizenship status and age.
Does polyclinic do health screening?
Yes, polyclinics in Singapore do offer health screening services. They provide basic health screening packages and are also key providers of the subsidised Screen for Life programme. However, the range of tests available may be more limited compared to private healthcare providers.
Can I get an MC for health screening?
Medical certificates (MCs) are issued when a doctor determines a patient is unfit for work for a specific period. While health screenings are important preventive measures, they typically don't render someone unfit for work, and therefore don't warrant an MC.
Company policies regarding leave for medical appointments vary. Some organisations allow employees to use sick leave for health screenings with a valid medical chit from a certified doctor. For appointments that don't result in being certified unfit, many employers encourage the use of annual leave or provide flexible time-off arrangements.
Should a health screening reveal a condition requiring rest, the attending doctor may issue an MC, which would then entitle you to paid sick leave. We recommend informing your supervisor of any planned medical appointments well in advance to ensure proper coverage and planning.
Disclaimer: The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice, please consult a specialist at Thomson Medical. Book an appointment with Thomson Medical today.
For more information, contact us:
Thomson Specialists Paragon (Health Screening)
- Mon - Fri: 8.30am - 5.30pm
- Sat: 8.30am - 12.30pm
Call: 6735 0300
Request a Health Screening