Singapore’s healthcare system is often held up as an example of excellence and as a possible model for what could come next in the United States. Singapore spends much less per person on healthcare than the United States, yet its citizens pay more out of pocket, but health costs are relatively cheap
Singapore’s healthcare system is one of the best in the world with top-rated physicians, a phenomenal funding system organized by the government, and excellent facilities. Singapore’s system is unique, and there are reasons that comparisons between the nations aren’t apt. However, Americans may be able to learn a thing or two from Singaporeans, as discovered in a recent visit to study the health system.
Singapore’s Healthcare System
Singapore’s healthcare system is organized into three levels of protection. Both a savings account and catastrophic insurance are required, and there are also public back-up funds. Singaporeans can visit one website, see prices, and use online calculators to judge how much of the bill their insurance and savings account will cover. The public healthcare system in Singapore is funded by the government, compared to the US where it is funded by private insurance companies. All Singaporean citizens and permanent residents qualify for public health insurance in SG, but few Americans qualify for public insurance in the US.
Lessons for the US
Singapore’s healthcare system holds valuable lessons for the US. The US could learn a thing or two from Singapore when it comes to providing quality healthcare at a reasonable cost. Here are some of the lessons that the US can learn from Singapore’s healthcare system:
- Social Harmony: Singapore’s emphasis on “social harmony” is a key factor in that nation’s healthcare achievements. “They believe that nobody in their country, even a foreigner, will go without healthcare,” according to William Haseltine, president and founder of the think tank ACCESS Health International.
- Public-Private Balance: Singapore’s universal health coverage system is largely overseen by the government’s Ministry of Health, but also includes private providers. The US could learn from Singapore’s emphasis on both the value of a free market system and the value of a strong government role in the marketplace to ensure a well-functioning healthcare system.
- Transparency in Pricing: Singapore’s healthcare system is transparent in pricing, which allows patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare.
- Increased Competition: Singapore’s healthcare system has increased competition, which has led to better quality care and lower costs.
- Investing in Wellness: Singapore invests in wellness, which helps to prevent chronic diseases and reduce healthcare costs.
- Opt-Out Catastrophic Health Insurance: Singapore requires its citizens to have catastrophic health insurance, which helps to protect them from financial ruin in the event of a major illness or injury.
- Salaried Doctors: Singapore has salaried doctors, which helps to reduce the incentive for doctors to over-treat patients.
- Higher Co-Pays: Singapore has higher co-pays, which helps to reduce unnecessary healthcare utilization.
- A Tiered System: Singapore has a tiered system, which allows patients to choose the level of care that they need and can afford.
Singapore’s healthcare system is unique, and there are reasons that comparisons between the nations aren’t apt. However, Americans may be able to learn a thing or two from Singaporeans. Singapore’s healthcare system holds valuable lessons for the US, including social harmony, a public-private balance, transparency in pricing, increased competition, investing in wellness, opt-out catastrophic health insurance, salaried doctors, higher co-pays, and a tiered system. By learning from Singapore’s healthcare system, the US can provide quality healthcare at a reasonable cost.
Key Features of Singapore’s Healthcare System
Singapore’s healthcare system is often held up as an example of excellence, and for good reason. The country has achieved universal health coverage through a mixed financing system, with approximately 70-80% of Singaporeans obtaining their medical care within the public health system. The government’s share of health expenditures has increased in recent years, with the aim of reducing out-of-pocket costs for citizens.
Singapore’s healthcare system is also known for its low costs and high-quality care. The country’s delivery system is geared towards raising up all its citizens, rather than achieving excellence in a few high-profile areas. Primary care is provided mostly by the private sector, with about 80% of Singaporeans receiving care from general practitioners.
In addition to its healthcare system, Singapore is also home to many world-class medical facilities and healthcare professionals. The country’s healthcare industry is constantly evolving, with the role of technology becoming increasingly important.
Overall, Singapore is an excellent place to seek medical treatment. Its healthcare system is efficient, affordable, and of high quality. With its focus on promoting healthy living and preventing disease, Singapore is a model for the world in terms of healthcare.
Sources:
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4293982/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Healthcare_in_Singapore
- https://www.nytimes.com/2019/04/22/upshot/singapore-health-system-lessons.html
- https://www.commonwealthfund.org/international-health-policy-center/countries/singapore
- https://www.vox.com/policy-and-politics/2017/4/25/15356118/singapore-health-care-system-explained
- https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/10/how-to-build-a-better-health-system/