With rising healthcare costs and an ageing population, Singapore’s Healthier SG initiative is a timely and important step toward improving long-term health outcomes. Launched to encourage preventive care and healthier lifestyles, Healthier SG provides Singaporeans with subsidies and support for regular health screenings, chronic disease management, and healthier living.
But how can you ensure you’re using these subsidies effectively? In this article, we’ll guide you through practical ways to make the most of what Healthier SG offers.
1. Enrol with a Family Doctor
One of the first and most important steps in the Healthier SG journey is enrolling with a family doctor or General Practitioner (GP) of your choice.
By doing so, you establish a long-term relationship with a single healthcare provider who understands your medical history and can provide personalised advice. Once enrolled, you’ll receive subsidised care, including annual check-ins, health screenings, and chronic disease management.
To maximise this benefit, choose a clinic that is conveniently located and open during hours that suit your schedule. Regular visits, even when you’re not sick, will help catch health issues early.
2. Go for Regular Screenings
Healthier SG provides subsidies for nationally recommended screenings under the Screen for Life (SFL) programme. These include tests for conditions such as:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Colorectal cancer
- Cervical and breast cancer (for women)
These screenings are either free or cost only a few dollars for eligible Singaporeans. Yet many still delay or skip them. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear—early detection through regular screening saves lives and money.
Take full advantage of these subsidies by scheduling your screenings annually or as recommended by your GP.
3. Use Subsidised Vaccinations
Under Healthier SG, selected vaccinations are also subsidised. This includes:
- Influenza vaccine (yearly)
- Pneumococcal vaccine (for seniors)
- COVID-19 boosters (as advised)
Vaccinations are a critical part of preventive healthcare, especially for older adults and those with chronic conditions. Discuss with your family doctor which vaccinations are suitable for your age and medical profile.
Don’t miss out on these highly subsidised services—they reduce the risk of severe illness and hospitalisation.
4. Tap into Chronic Disease Management Support
If you’re living with chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol, the Healthier SG framework offers structured support.
Subsidies under the Chronic Disease Management Programme (CDMP) can be used for consultations, lab tests, and medications. These are also claimable under MediSave, helping reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Work with your GP to create a care plan that includes lifestyle changes, regular monitoring, and medication adherence. Keeping your condition under control not only improves your quality of life but also avoids expensive hospital stays.
5. Join Lifestyle Programmes
Healthier SG isn’t just about clinics and check-ups, it also supports healthier daily habits.
Once enrolled, you’ll gain access to a variety of lifestyle programmes offered by Health Promotion Board (HPB), including:
- Exercise classes at community centres
- Nutritional counselling
- Smoking cessation support
- Mental well-being workshops
These programmes are often free or heavily subsidised. Take advantage of the resources in your neighbourhood to stay active, eat better, and manage stress.
Even small changes, like joining a weekly walking group or learning to cook healthier meals, can lead to long-term improvements.
6. Make Use of the Healthy 365 App
To complement the Healthier SG initiative, Singaporeans are encouraged to use the Healthy 365 app. This app allows you to:
- Track your steps and physical activity
- Participate in challenges and earn rewards
- Book health screening appointments
- Receive personalised health tips
Many HPB challenges come with vouchers or prizes, providing added motivation to stay active. Pair the app with a fitness tracker or your phone to make health monitoring a daily habit.
7. Monitor Your Progress
Finally, make it a point to review your health goals with your doctor during your annual health plan consultation.
These personalized consultations are part of your Healthier SG benefits and offer a great opportunity to track your progress, ask questions, and adjust your goals based on lifestyle or health changes.
Keep a record of your screenings, vaccinations, and any health milestones you reach, it not only motivates you but also helps your doctor provide better care.
Conclusion
Singapore’s Healthier SG programme is more than just a set of subsidies, it’s a nationwide effort to help residents take charge of their health before problems arise. By enrolling early, building a relationship with your GP, staying consistent with screenings and vaccinations, and participating in wellness programmes, you can stretch the value of every dollar subsidised. Making the most of Healthier SG means making smarter choices today, for a healthier, more active tomorrow.
