Health screenings in Singapore
You’ve probably heard or even said things like, “Aiyah, I’m still young lah,” “So expensive, really need to go meh?” or even “Better not know, later suay” when someone brings up health screenings. It’s one of those things that’s easy to keep pushing down the priority list, especially when you’re feeling fine.
But health check-ups aren’t just for when something feels wrong. They’re a simple way to stay on top of your health, get some peace of mind, and spot potential issues early. To save you some time, we’ve done the homework on the screening costs and best clinics to visit so you’re better prepared.
Table of Contents
What to know before your next health screening
What is the purpose of a health screening?
Let’s be honest, clinics and hospitals aren’t exactly the most warm and welcoming places to be. If you’re physically fit and not suffering from anything beyond the average pains that come with age, it can be easy to assume health screenings are just not that necessary, but you’re wrong.
Chronic illnesses like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and type 2 diabetes can cause lasting damage to your body without showing any signs, especially in the early stages.
It’s not just common diseases either. Precancerous tumours and cancers can also progress with no obvious symptoms until they’ve become more serious, and infectious diseases such as Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C can damage the liver over decades.
Regular screenings help catch these “silent killers” for a better chance of successful treatment, preventing further complications and an even higher medical bill.
At the end of the day, there’s no harm in knowing. Getting a clean bill of health means you can take note of what daily habits are working for you and keep doing what you’re doing. Meanwhile, discovering any underlying issues early gives you the chance to seek treatment before they become bigger problems down the road.
What does a health screening consist of?
A typical health screening aims to capture a snapshot of your overall health. While the exact tests may vary between different healthcare providers, most general screenings will have a physician doing a physical examination, such as taking your height, weight, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels.
Most screenings will require a blood and/or urine test. Depending on what is recommended for your age and gender, your screening package might also include more in-depth tests. For example, an electrocardiogram (ECG) can check whether your heart rhythm is normal, while a chest X-ray can help spot abnormalities in the lungs and chest, such as infections or fluid buildup.
Image credit: CPF Board
More comprehensive screenings may also dive deeper into your family medical history and include extra tests based on your risk factors, like those that identify cancer markers.
Don’t worry if these aren’t in your screening package yet; many providers usually let you add them along with other tests you might need.
Are there any subsidies for health screenings in Singapore?
Formerly known as Screen for Life, Healthier SG Screening is the national screening programme by the Health Promotion Board (HPB) that offers affordable tests for Singapore Citizens at Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) General Practitioner (GP) clinics or polyclinics.
These tests are tailored to identify common diseases, including cardiovascular risk factors like obesity, hypertension, hyperlipidaemia and diabetes, as well as colorectal and cervical cancer.
Image credit: CHAS
Depending on your eligibility, older folks holding the Pioneer Generation (PG) card can get screened for free, while Merdeka Generation (MG) and CHAS Blue or Orange card-holders pay $2. All other eligible Singapore Citizens with CHAS Green Cards will have to pay $5. All that for less than some cai fan nowadays, now that’s a deal.
Breast cancer screening services are also subsidised at selected polyclinics, with free services for eligible Healthier SG-enrolled Singapore Citizens. Otherwise, it’ll cost $25 for those with Pioneer Generation cards, $37.50 for the Merdeka Generation card-holders, $50 for Singapore Citizens, and $75 for Permanent Residents.
If you’re a Permanent Resident, it’s best to check with your preferred CHAS GP clinic on the screening and consultation rates.
Finding a subsidised clinic near you is also easy via the Healthier SG website, with over 1,200 clinics participating in the subsidy scheme.
What does the Healthier SG Screening Subsidy cover?
Image credit: NTUC Health
It covers the cost of the recommended screening tests done within the same visit and the doctor’s consultation fee, as well as the 1st subsequent consultation fee if a follow-up session is deemed necessary by the doctors. That means any tests done on a separate visit will also be charged separately.
Am I eligible for subsidised health screening under Healthier SG Screening?
You might be eligible depending on 3 main factors: your age and sex, the date of your last screening, and your medical history. The relevant authorities may also refer to your health records, such as those in the National Electronic Health Record, to assess your eligibility.
Image credit: Healthier SG
As a general guideline, women aged 25 and above are encouraged to undergo cervical cancer screening, while those aged 50 and above should also have regular breast cancer screenings. Men and women aged 40 and above are recommended to undergo cardiovascular risk screening, and colorectal cancer screening is advised for both sexes from age 50 onwards.
Those aged 18 to 39 who are assessed to be at higher risk after taking the Diabetes Risk Assessment may be eligible for subsidised cardiovascular risk screening under Healthier SG. Women aged 25 and above also enjoy subsidised rates for cervical cancer screening.
Depending on the type of screening, it’s best to get checked every 1 to 3 years, and the lapse in time between your check-ups will also factor into whether you receive the subsidy. Certain medical conditions, such as a history of cardiovascular disease, cervical cancer, or colorectal cancer, may also factor into your eligibility.
How to apply for a health screening?
The 1st step is booking an appointment with a CHAS GP clinic through the Health Appointment System website.
Take note that breast cancer screening services under the Healthier SG Screening subsidy are only available at selected polyclinics. For the full list of clinics that offer breast mammograms and cervical cancer screening tests, refer to the online Healthier SG Screening booklet.
The 2nd step is bringing your NRIC and/or CHAS/MG/PG Card on the day of your screening as proof that you qualify for the subsidy. To be safe, you can also call ahead of your appointment to check with your preferred CHAS GP clinic for any other instructions.
For those with corporate health insurance, you’ll need some form of verification, such as a company letter, email, or staff pass, depending on the arrangement between your company and the healthcare provider.
What do I need to prepare before a health screening?
Specific requirements vary depending on the type of screening, but as a rule of thumb, many health screening packages require patients to fast 8 to 10 hours before the appointment, particularly if the package includes blood glucose and cholesterol testing or an abdominal ultrasound.
If you’ve got a morning appointment, you’ll want to lay off the late-night snacks from midnight on the day of your appointment for more accurate test results. Sips of plain water are still recommended, and you’ll want to rehydrate with a few cups in the hour before your appointment for your blood and urine tests.
Ladies, it’s best to book your appointment either 7 days after your last day of menstruation or around day 10 to 14 of your monthly cycle, before your next menstrual period, as blood can make it harder for cervical screening or urine tests to be read clearly.
How often should I go for a health screening?
Your age, sex, and family history affect how frequently you should be going for screenings.
Here’s a general overview of the recommended screening frequency by HealthHub:
| Screenings By Disease Type | Frequency By Age Range | ||
| 18-39 years | 40-49 years | 50 years & above | |
Diabetes
|
Once every 3 years | ||
Obesity
|
Once every year | ||
High Blood Pressure
|
Once every 2 years | ||
High Blood Cholesterol
|
Once every 3 years | ||
Colorectal Cancer
|
Not Needed | Once every year | |
Breast Cancer (for women)
|
Not needed | Once every 2 years | |
Cervical Cancer (for women)
|
Pap Test frequency: Once every 3 years
*Recommended for 25 to 29 year olds HPV Test frequency: Once every 5 years *Recommended for those 30 & above |
||
Just a heads-up: if you have risk factors like a family history of diabetes, you might benefit from starting screenings earlier or getting checked more often.
If your results are normal, you can go for health screenings within the recommended frequency. Those diagnosed with a chronic condition are strongly advised to follow up with their doctor for regular monitoring.
Where can I go for a health screening?
Image credit: CPF Board
The best clinic for you depends on how much you’re willing to spend and whether you need a specific type of health screening. If you’re on a budget or just looking to do a general screening, CHAS GP clinics and polyclinics should be sufficient.
For those with chronic illnesses or in need of a more comprehensive, full-body screening, it might be a better idea to head to a hospital, private clinic, or opt for specialised screening centres.
Best private clinics & public hospitals for health screenings in Singapore
1. AsiaMedic Limited
Comprehensive screening with deeper imaging from MRI, CT & PET/CT scans
Image credit: AsiaMedic
When it comes to getting clarity on your health, the last thing you want to do is trudge down to a far-flung clinic or visit different clinics across Singapore just to get different checks done. Not only is AsiaMedic centrally located in Orchard, they’re also a one-stop health screening centre offering a comprehensive range of diagnostic services under one roof.
From general imaging such as mammograms, ultrasound scans, X-rays and Bone Mineral Density (BMD) scans to advanced imaging options including MRI, CT, and PET/CT scans, patients can conveniently access all the tests they need in a single location. They’ve also been in the biz since 1997, so you know you’re in good hands.
L-R: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI Scan), Computerised Tomography (CT Scan), PET/CT Scan.
Image adapted from: AsiaMedic
Also, AsiaMedic was the first healthcare provider in Asia Pacific to install the GE HealthCare SIGNA™ Hero 3.0T MRI system, which leverages AI-powered deep learning technology to deliver superior image quality and faster scan times.
Their health screening options are extensive and customisable, with 8 different health screening packages offering different levels of coverage, plus 4 types of specialised packages tailored for specific concerns or phases of life – like smoker’s health or cancer screenings.
What you get is a full suite of services that encompasses screening, imaging, and consultation all under one roof. No more basic packages that only grant you surface-level screening, AsiaMedic provides advanced imaging integration so you can get deeper, more accurate detection.
Browse health screening packages at AsiaMedic.
Address: 350 Orchard Road, #08-00 Shaw House, Singapore 238868
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 8.30am-5.30pm | Sat 8.30am-12.30pm (Closed on Sun)
Contact: 6789 8888 | AsiaMedic website
2. Raffles Medical Group
Customisable packages with add-on options
Image credit: Raffles Medical Group
Committing to a single package can feel a bit restrictive sometimes, especially when prices already easily run into the hundreds. That’s why many providers also offer add-on tests, so you can customise your screening to suit your individual needs. But few providers have tiered screening categories as comprehensive and as flexible as Raffles Medical Group’s Essential and Enhanced packages.
The Essential category provides a range of baseline assessments across 3 different tiers – Raffles Classic ($138), Raffles Lifestyle ($238), and Raffles Plus ($398). Each tier covers a physical examination and assessment, laboratory analysis, and offers add-on tests. These optional tie-ins include tumour marker packages for major organs, mineral screenings, and sex-specific tests like blood tests for early detection of breast cancer and prostate cancer.
While the Essential package is more suited for your typical routine check-up, the Enhanced package’s 6 tiers are tailored for those seeking more advanced assessments. As these screenings are usually done at dedicated Raffles Health Screeners centres, the prices are naturally higher, starting from $498.
But there’s good news: You can still make full use of the Healthier SG Screening subsidy for approved tests at their clinics, though their commercial, full-body screening packages like Raffles Classic are separate services.
Find out more about the packages through the Raffles Medical Group’s website.
3. ATA Medical
Offers the option of female-only screening staff
Image credit: ATA Medical
Going for a health screening can sometimes feel a little invasive, especially when it involves more physical tests like mammograms. For ladies who would prefer a little extra privacy and comfort, ATA Medical is worth considering.
While booking your consultation, you can request a female doctor and staff who will handle consultations, tests like the mammograms and ultrasound scans, as well as treatments with discretion.
Beyond personalised care, they’ve also got 13 different packages to choose from, with the most affordable one starting from $76, with add-on tests available for select tiers. Plus, they’re also participating in the Healthier SG Screening scheme, so it’s even more convenient to sign up for one of their separate packages after your subsidised screening is done.
One of the stand-out packages is the Pre-Marital package ($291 for men, $325 for women), ideal for young couples looking to start a family. It targets underlying health issues such as diabetes, anaemia, or thyroid disorders and detects sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or chronic infectious diseases like hepatitis B and HIV. The goal is to evaluate fertility status to assess the risk of inherited disorders based on genetic compatibility and support early medical intervention if necessary.
Check out any of their clinics located in Tanjong Pagar, Orchard, and Jurong or head to the ATA Medical website to find out more.
4. Healthway Medical
Luxurious private screening pods
Image credit: Healthway Medical
Healthway Medical has over 60 GP clinics islandwide offering 9 screening packages, from the most basic Blue Package ($70) to the in-depth Spotmas Multi-Cancer Screening ($870.91).
However, none of these is as luxurious as the packages offered at their 3 Executive Health Screening centres located at OUE Downtown Gallery, Capitol Singapore, and The Centrepoint. You’ll get to turn your check-up from a chore to a self-care day at their premium clinics, fitted with spa-like chairs, in-suite dining, and even private suites or pods.
These centres also feature streamlined, integrated tech for fast registration, alongside on-site imaging and laboratory services, like X-ray, ultrasound, and mammograms. Some locations even offer dedicated medical concierge services for local and international patients.
Prices start from $428 across 5 different screening tiers at these centres, with the pricier packages offering greater flexibility when it comes to selecting specialised tests.
P.S. You can also claim the Healthier SG Screening subsidy at their regular GP clinics.
For more details, be sure to read through their GP clinic health screening brochure or explore the Healthway Screening website for more information on the Executive Health Screening packages.
5. Parkway Shenton
Affordable screening packages starting from just $38
Image credit: Parkway Shenton
You might have seen their clinics around your neighbourhood, and that’s because Parkway Shenton is one of the few, more affordable clinics out there, and they’re also enrolled in the Healthier SG Screening subsidy scheme.
Their Basic Lite package costs just $38 and is more than sufficient for those just hoping to check for common conditions. It covers a clinical examination and medical consultation, and blood investigations, including a cholesterol profile and glucose test.
Packages are tailored according to patient goals rather than the number of tests. For example, the Women’s Comprehensive Bundle ($238) includes a pap smear to test for abnormalities in the cervix. The Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screen 6 ($654), on the other hand, helps target 6 common early cancers through DNA fragments, which is especially helpful for those with a family history of cancer.
Check the Parkway Shenton website to find the nearest clinic to you.
6. Minmed
Health screenings in the comfort of your own home
Image credit: Minmed
Skip the long queues in clinics and get checked from the comfort of your own home with Minmed’s home-based health screening service.
A mobile team will arrive within 1 hour from your selected timing at your preferred address for your screening, and results come in 1 working day with a doctor teleconsult to follow. Bookings can be made for you and your family in one sitting for convenience, so you can keep your anxieties at bay with your loved ones at your side.
Packages range from $105 to $550, with more expensive packages inclusive of tumour markers, cancer screening, cardiac profile, and anaemia deficiency screening.
Don’t worry, if you still prefer to head down to a physical clinic for your check-up, it might be even cheaper, with some on-site screening packages starting from just $59 at Minmed clinics. You can also do your Healthier SG subsidised screenings at any of their clinics as well.
Book a clinic or home-based screenings via Minmed’s website.
7. Singapore General Hospital
Straightforward screening packages
Image credit: Singapore General Hospital
Unlike most other public hospitals that offer a variety of tests, Singapore General Hospital (SGH) keeps it simple with just its Classic ($384) and Premium ($820) packages, so you can avoid decision paralysis.
That doesn’t mean the screening packages are any less comprehensive than others, though. The Classic package comes with the typical procedures you’d expect, like a full blood count as well as more in-depth tests that you’d normally have to upgrade for, like a body composition analysis, chest X-Ray, and ECG.
If there are more check-ups you’d like to do, you also have the freedom to add specific tests like an anti-HIV test for an additional fee starting from $56.70.
Sign Up with TSL Connect
Schedule your next appointment through SGH’s Health Assessment Booking Form.
8. National University Hospital (NUH)
Different tiers to suit your budget
Image credit: National University Hospital
National University Hospital (NUH) offers tiered screening packages at slightly more affordable rates than some other public hospitals, so you can pick and choose based on your needs and budget. Health Express is their most basic health screening package and starts at $248.52. You’ll get a clinical assessment and review that includes a comprehensive medical history and physical examination, as well as blood and urine tests.
The most expensive tier goes up to $815.32 and covers specialised tests including a chest X-Ray, bone mineral density scans to check for osteoporosis, and ultrasound scans with sex-specific additions like a prostate scan for men, and mammograms and pelvic ultrasounds for women.
For the full list of packages, check out the health screening brochure on the NUH website.
Schedule your next health screening at one of these clinics today
You know what they say: health is wealth, and staying on top of your health through check-ups is one of the best investments you can make.
More health-related guides:
- 6 hacks to get cheaper medication & supplements in SG
- 13 best TCM clinics in SG
- 5 medical conditions eligible for Mobile Inpatient Care at home
Cover image adapted from: ATA Medical