Emergency Medical Care Guide for Singapore
Essential information for medical emergencies in Singapore. Learn about emergency services, ambulance systems, hospital emergency departments, costs, and what to expect during medical emergencies.
Overview
Singapore has one of the world's most efficient emergency medical systems, with rapid response times and high-quality emergency care. Understanding how to access and navigate emergency services can be crucial during medical crises.
The emergency medical system operates on a triage basis, prioritizing cases by severity rather than arrival time. All major hospitals have 24/7 emergency departments, and the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) operates the national ambulance service with an average response time of 8-11 minutes.
Emergency Numbers and Services
Knowing which number to call and when can save precious time during emergencies.
Emergency Hotlines
When to Call 995
Hospital Emergency Departments
Singapore has multiple hospitals with 24/7 emergency departments strategically located across the island.
Major Public Hospital Emergency Departments
Private Hospital Emergency Services
Ambulance Services
Understanding ambulance options and when to use each service.
Emergency Department Process
What to expect when you arrive at an emergency department in Singapore.
Triage System
Registration Process
Costs and Payment
Understanding emergency medical costs and payment options in Singapore.
Emergency Department Charges
Payment Methods
Common Emergency Situations
Guidance for handling specific emergency scenarios in Singapore.
After Emergency Care
Important steps following emergency treatment.
Discharge Instructions
Medical Documentation
Preparation Tips
How to prepare for potential medical emergencies in Singapore.
Frequently Asked Questions
The call itself is free, but non-residents are charged S$274 for SCDF ambulance transport. The fee is waived for genuine emergencies resulting in admission. Private ambulances charge S$200-500 regardless of residency status.
SCDF ambulances (995) take you to the nearest appropriate hospital based on your condition. You cannot choose. Private ambulances (1777 or others) allow you to specify your preferred hospital.
Depends on triage priority. P1 cases are seen immediately, P2 within 20 minutes. P3/P4 cases may wait 2-6 hours during peak times. Private hospitals generally have shorter waits but higher costs.
Hospitals cannot refuse emergency treatment due to inability to pay. Most hospitals offer payment plans or financial assistance. Discuss with medical social workers before discharge. Keep all receipts for insurance claims.
Emergency departments are for life-threatening conditions. For non-urgent issues like minor cuts, sprains, or flu, consider 24-hour GP clinics, polyclinics, or urgent care centers which are faster and cheaper.
Yes, you can leave at any time before treatment (called "Left Without Being Seen"). However, you'll still be charged registration fees. If you've been triaged as urgent, it's advisable to wait for treatment.
Overview
Singapore has one of the world's most efficient emergency medical systems, with rapid response times and high-quality emergency care. Understanding how to access and navigate emergency services can be crucial during medical crises.
The emergency medical system operates on a triage basis, prioritizing cases by severity rather than arrival time. All major hospitals have 24/7 emergency departments, and the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) operates the national ambulance service with an average response time of 8-11 minutes.
Emergency Numbers and Services
Knowing which number to call and when can save precious time during emergencies.
Emergency Hotlines
When to Call 995
Hospital Emergency Departments
Singapore has multiple hospitals with 24/7 emergency departments strategically located across the island.
Major Public Hospital Emergency Departments
Private Hospital Emergency Services
Ambulance Services
Understanding ambulance options and when to use each service.
Emergency Department Process
What to expect when you arrive at an emergency department in Singapore.
Triage System
Registration Process
Costs and Payment
Understanding emergency medical costs and payment options in Singapore.
Emergency Department Charges
Payment Methods
Common Emergency Situations
Guidance for handling specific emergency scenarios in Singapore.
After Emergency Care
Important steps following emergency treatment.
Discharge Instructions
Medical Documentation
Preparation Tips
How to prepare for potential medical emergencies in Singapore.
FAQs
The call itself is free, but non-residents are charged S$274 for SCDF ambulance transport. The fee is waived for genuine emergencies resulting in admission. Private ambulances charge S$200-500 regardless of residency status.
SCDF ambulances (995) take you to the nearest appropriate hospital based on your condition. You cannot choose. Private ambulances (1777 or others) allow you to specify your preferred hospital.
Depends on triage priority. P1 cases are seen immediately, P2 within 20 minutes. P3/P4 cases may wait 2-6 hours during peak times. Private hospitals generally have shorter waits but higher costs.
Hospitals cannot refuse emergency treatment due to inability to pay. Most hospitals offer payment plans or financial assistance. Discuss with medical social workers before discharge. Keep all receipts for insurance claims.
Emergency departments are for life-threatening conditions. For non-urgent issues like minor cuts, sprains, or flu, consider 24-hour GP clinics, polyclinics, or urgent care centers which are faster and cheaper.
Yes, you can leave at any time before treatment (called "Left Without Being Seen"). However, you'll still be charged registration fees. If you've been triaged as urgent, it's advisable to wait for treatment.