Telemedicine has become a vital part of healthcare in Singapore, enabling individuals to access medical advice and care remotely. Whether consulting from home or managing chronic health conditions without frequent clinic visits, telemedicine provides a convenient and efficient option. In this guide, we will discuss telemedicine in Singapore, including comparisons between public polyclinic offerings and private providers.
What Is Telemedicine?
Telemedicine allows healthcare professionals to diagnose, consult, and treat patients from a distance using digital technology. It has become increasingly popular in Singapore, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, when demand for virtual care rose due to movement restrictions and safety concerns. Telemedicine encompasses video consultations, mobile health applications, and remote patient monitoring, making it easier for Singaporeans to manage healthcare needs from the comfort of their homes.
Public Vs Private Telemedicine Providers
Singapore’s healthcare system provides both public and private telemedicine options. Each comes with its own set of benefits and limitations.
1. Public Polyclinics
Public healthcare institutions such as polyclinics, which are run by the Singaporean government, provide affordable medical services for Singaporean residents. However, telemedicine options at polyclinics may have certain restrictions. Patients may find that booking telemedicine appointments at polyclinics can take longer than with private providers, and appointment availability is sometimes more limited.
2. Private Telemedicine Providers
Private telemedicine providers typically offer more flexible and immediate services compared to public polyclinics. While private services generally have higher fees, they provide faster access, sometimes allowing patients to book appointments on the same day. Many private providers also offer 24/7 telemedicine services, which can be valuable for patients requiring urgent care outside of typical working hours.
Where To Get Telemedicine In Singapore
A wide array of telemedicine services is available in Singapore, including both polyclinic and private telehealth providers. Below are some you may consider:
Polyclinic Telemedicine Providers
1. National Healthcare Group (NHG) Polyclinics
NHG Polyclinics offer teleconsultations for follow-up patients who need regular monitoring of chronic conditions or require medication refills. Services are generally limited to patients already enrolled at NHG facilities, and consultations are conducted during regular business hours. Patients eligible for government subsidies, such as CHAS, can benefit from affordable rates.
2. SingHealth Polyclinics
SingHealth provides telemedicine services focused on general conditions, chronic disease management and family planning. Patients can request teleconsultations for conditions such as diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and gout. Similar to NHG, SingHealth patients receive subsidised rates, and eligible patients may also use Medisave for certain chronic condition management services.
3. SATA CommHealth
As a community healthcare provider, SATA CommHealth offers telemedicine services at affordable rates, making them accessible to CHAS and PA cardholders who receive discounted rates. Consultations are around S$12 and delivery of medications is also at S$12 excluding medication charges, and are available for acute and chronic conditions.
Private Telemedicine Providers
1. Doctor Anywhere
Doctor Anywhere (DA) offers 24/7 telemedicine services, providing consultations for many common illnesses and chronic conditions. The app includes same-day medication delivery within three hours post-consultation and options to schedule or request on-demand sessions.
As of October 2024, the consultation fees for GPs are structured as follows:
- S$21.80 nett during standard hours (6:00 AM to 8:59 PM).
- S$49.05 nett during after-hours (9:00 PM to 5:59 AM).
- Consultations for birth control or contraceptives are also available 24/7 on-demand or by appointment, with a fee of S$16.35.
Specialist consultations start from S$76.30, while sessions with Mental Wellness, Nutrition & Fitness, and Lactation Consultants are available for S$120 for a 60-minute session.
2. Pinnacle Family Clinic
Pinnacle Family Clinic telemedicine services provide 24/7 access to healthcare, ensuring that patients can connect with medical professionals whenever necessary.
During online consultations, medications can be prescribed and conveniently delivered to a location of your choice on the same day. Delivery can also be arranged at an additional charge, with delivery fees starting from S$10 before GST.
Pinnacle Family Clinic is staffed by Ministry of Health (MOH)-certified doctors, ensuring high-quality care. Consultation fees start from S$13.90 before GST, with charges ranging from S$13.90 to S$36.90 depending on the date and time of the consultation. Patients can utilise various payment options, including CHAS cards, Merdeka cards, Pioneer Generation cards, and Medisave.
4. Raffles Connect
Raffles Connect Teleconsult is an in-app function that allows for video consultations with Raffles Medical doctors, available 24/7. The Raffles Connect app offers a range of telemedicine services, enabling users to access their digital medical reports and personal health records seamlessly. Patients can also request the issuance of medical certificates and access specialist referral letters through the app. Additionally, Raffles Connect facilitates appointment booking with doctors at the Raffles Specialist Centre.
After consultations, medications can be delivered directly to patients’ doorsteps by a courier service.
Conditions suitable for video consultations include:
- Headaches and migraines
- Fever, cold, and flu
- Diarrhoea and constipation
- Cough and sore throat
- Rashes and skin irritation
It is important to note that conditions requiring emergency medical attention are not suitable for video consultations. Consultation fees typically start around S$22 excluding medication costs.
5. Minmed
Minmed provides convenient teleconsultation services that allow patients to connect with qualified medical professionals from the comfort of their homes. With a user-friendly app, Minmed offers 24/7 access to medical consultations, ensuring that patients can receive care whenever they need it.
Patients can consult with General Practitioners (GPs) for a wide range of health concerns, including acute illnesses, chronic condition management, and general health inquiries. The consultation fees for GP services start at S$21.60 per session, making it an affordable choice for patients seeking timely medical advice.
In addition to virtual consultations, Minmed offers medication delivery services, ensuring that prescribed medications are conveniently brought to the patient’s doorstep. Upon completion of a consultation, patients can have their medications delivered within 3 hours, allowing for seamless continuity of care.
Benefits Of Telemedicine In Singapore
Telemedicine is more than a convenient solution for minor ailments; it is a valuable tool that enhances access to healthcare, particularly for those with mobility issues or busy schedules. Key benefits include:
- Accessibility – Telemedicine brings healthcare directly to the patient, reducing the need to travel. This is especially useful for elderly patients and individuals with limited mobility.
- Time Efficiency – Patients can avoid waiting rooms and travel time, making telemedicine a time-saving alternative. Consultations are usually completed within 15–30 minutes.
- Flexibility in Scheduling – Private telemedicine services, especially, offer 24/7 access, which can be invaluable for urgent medical needs during off-hours.
- Reduced Exposure – By consulting from home, patients avoid exposure to other illnesses in clinics or hospitals, making telemedicine a safer option during flu seasons or pandemics.
Use Telemedicine Safely For Yourself And Your Loved Ones
According to the Ministry of Health (MOH) in Singapore, while telemedicine has significantly improved healthcare access—especially for an ageing population and those managing chronic conditions—it does have limitations. Telemedicine can help bridge challenges related to distance, time, and cost by offering patients a convenient way to connect with healthcare providers from home. However, certain conditions and symptoms may still require in-person consultations, as doctors cannot conduct physical examinations, check vital signs, or listen to heart and lung sounds through a screen.
To make the most of telemedicine, it is essential to understand when it is suitable for your healthcare needs. Learn more about using telemedicine effectively and safely on the MOH website here.
Costs Of Telemedicine Services In Singapore
The cost of telemedicine consultations varies depending on the provider and the type of consultation. Public healthcare services are generally more affordable for Singaporean residents, as polyclinics offer subsidised rates. Private telemedicine consultations tend to start from S$20 to S$60 for general consultations, with specialist consultations costing higher.
Some telemedicine providers include follow-up consultations and medication delivery in their packages, which can offer greater value. Additionally, patients should confirm whether their chosen telemedicine service provider is covered under their health insurance or corporate healthcare plan, as this may offset costs.
Things To Consider When Choosing A Telemedicine Provider
When selecting a telemedicine provider, it is important to consider the following:
- Availability Of Services – Determine if the provider offers the specific services you require, such as specialist consultations, mental health support, or chronic disease management.
- Insurance Compatibility – Many telemedicine providers work with health insurance plans, which can make services more affordable. Be sure to confirm coverage with both the telemedicine provider and your insurance provider.
- Reputation And Certification – Select providers who are certified by Singapore’s Ministry of Health, as they adhere to stringent healthcare standards. Look for well-established platforms with positive patient feedback.
- Service Hours – Choose a provider that matches your schedule, especially if you anticipate needing after-hours or emergency consultations.
Seeking Confidential Care?
If you are looking for a discreet option for sexual health or STD treatment, telemedicine may be an ideal solution. Our preferred doctor, Dr Kenneth Lee offers telemedicine consultations, ensuring a safe and private environment for your healthcare needs. With the convenience of virtual appointments, you can discuss sensitive issues from the comfort of your home.
Contact Us
To book an appointment with Dr Kenneth Lee or for further inquiries about telemedicine in Singapore, contact us through the button below. Health365 has partnerships with trusted healthcare providers in Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand.
For business owners offering telemedicine services, we invite you to connect with us through our Contact Us page to explore potential collaboration opportunities.
Key Takeaway
Telemedicine in Singapore is transforming how healthcare is accessed, offering patients both convenience and efficiency. Whether you choose a public polyclinic service or a private telemedicine provider, telemedicine can help you manage your health with ease and flexibility. By carefully selecting a reputable and convenient service, Singaporeans can enjoy high-quality medical care from the comfort of their homes.
As telemedicine continues to evolve, it is likely that more options, services, and innovations will become available. Keep in mind the considerations above to make an informed choice and stay ahead in the realm of digital healthcare in Singapore.
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This article is informative only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.
