Cost Of Colorectal Cancer Treatment In Singapore

Colorectal cancer is the 2nd most frequently occurring cancer for men and women for the period 2018-2022, according to the Singapore Cancer Registry Annual Report 2022. This cancer is the second most common cause of death in cancer patients. Understanding the costs associated with its treatment is crucial for patients and their families. This article will explore the various expenses involved in colorectal cancer treatment, including colonoscopy screening, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy.

Learn More: Guide To Colon & Rectal Cancer In Singapore >>

Cost Of Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure used to detect colorectal cancer and other gastrointestinal issues. In Singapore, the cost of a colonoscopy can vary depending on whether it is a screening or diagnostic procedure and whether additional procedures, such as polyp removal, are required. We can expect to pay around S$2,000 – S$3,500 in private clinics or hospitals. Requirements for biopsies or polyp removal will result in additional costs.

MOH historical data also shows that a median cost of about S$1,700 for day-surgery procedures (“colonoscopy with removal of tissue or abnormal growth with scope”) done in public hospitals (with government subsidies), and about S$5,600 at restructured hospitals without subsidies.

Learn More: Colonoscopy To Detect Silent Killer Colorectal Cancer In Singapore >>

Colorectal Cancer Surgery Cost

MOH’s listing of the average costs of colorectal surgery in Singapore are:

Chemotherapy Cost

Chemotherapy costs in Singapore depend on the type and of drugs used, and the number of times they have to be administered.

Data from MOH (accessed in Sep 2024) provided these average chemotherapy costs in Singapore (Code: R63Z):

Cost Of Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy is a cancer treatment method that kills cancer cells using high doses of radiation to damage the DNA of the cancer cells. The cost of radiotherapy in Singapore can vary depending on the number of sessions required and the type of equipment used.

The cost of radiotherapy in Singapore can range from S$25,000 to S$30,000.

Using Medisave, MediShield And Insurance To Offset Cost Of Colorectal Cancer Treatment

Colorectal cancer treatment is claimable under MediSave, MediShield, and various insurance policies.

MediSave covers:

• Medicines
• Investigations
• Surgical operation fee

MediSave covers up to:

• Medical/surgical inpatient cases
  Up to S$450 per day for daily hospital charges (patient must stay in hospital at least 8 hours unless he/she is admitted for a day surgery). This includes a maximum of S$50 for doctor’s daily attendance fees.
• Approved day surgeries
  Up to S$300 per day for daily hospital charges.
• Surgical operations (inpatient and day surgery), with coverage limits depending on the complexity of the operation
• Certain outpatient treatments, with coverage limits depending on the treatment.

You may find the following resources useful:

National Cancer Cancer Singapore – guide to using MediSave

Ministry Of Health (MOH) – FAQs on cancer treatment financing

For insurance, you will need to check with your insurance provider on the specifics of cancer coverage under your policies, and also to ensure that your chosen doctor is on the panel of your insurance company.

Contact Us For A Doctor’s Appointment For Colonoscopy Screening Or Colorectal Cancer Treatment

If you are looking for a doctor for a colonoscopy or for colorectal cancer treatment, we can help to get an appointment with a specialist. Contact us via the button below.

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