Preventive care plays an important role in maintaining public health by identifying and addressing potential health issues before they get worse. In Singapore, health insurance greatly affects the accessibility and promotion of preventive services, helping to improve the nation’s overall well-being.

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Preventive Care Initiatives in Singapore

The Singaporean government has consistently prioritized preventive healthcare. In 2020, the Ministry of Health (MOH) allocated about 5% of its non-COVID-19 budget, or S$590 million, to preventive healthcare efforts. 

This commitment continued in 2021, with a similar 5% allocation, totaling S$720 million, including S$330 million for the Health Promotion Board’s initiatives. These funds support public education campaigns, healthy lifestyle activities, and subsidies for health screenings and vaccinations.

Source: Ministry of Health (MOH)

Health Insurance Coverage for Preventive Services

Singapore’s public health insurance system, MediShield Life, primarily covers large hospital bills and specific outpatient treatments. However, it generally does not extend to primary care or outpatient specialist services, which encompass many preventive measures.

To bridge this gap, the government introduced the “Healthier SG” initiative in July 2023, aiming to transform the healthcare system with a stronger emphasis on preventive care. 

This program encourages residents to enroll with a primary care physician. The physician will create personalized health plans focusing on regular screenings, vaccinations, and lifestyle changes. To date, over 700,000 residents have enrolled, and more than 1,000 general practitioners are participating.

Impact of Preventive Care on Healthcare Costs

Investing in preventive care can save a lot of money by reducing the risk of chronic diseases and the need for expensive treatments. Preventive measures like early screenings and vaccinations are more affordable. They help detect health issues early, reducing both treatment complexity and cost.

Despite these benefits, a survey conducted at the end of 2022 revealed that 60% of Singaporeans had not scheduled a health screening in the past year, highlighting the need for increased awareness and utilization of preventive services.

Encouraging Preventive Care Through Policy

The “Healthier SG” strategy highlights the government’s focus on preventive health by including general practitioners in the national healthcare system. This approach aims to offer continuous, personalized care, making preventive services more accessible and suited to individual health needs. 

By building strong patient-doctor relationships and stressing regular health maintenance, Singapore aims to shift from a reactive to a proactive healthcare model.