Overview
Singapore's medical clinic market proves beneficial to the economy; the number of clinics grows with the increase in population
Providing among the best health infrastructure in the world, Singapore’s growing ageing population, rising number of chronic ailments and expanding medical tourism have resulted in the increased need for healthcare clinics within the city.
The sector is divided into two segments, private sector practitioners and government polyclinics governed by the Ministry of Health (MOH), with expensive tertiary care solutions enabled by public hospitals. Under the Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS), clinics in the city offer primary healthcare services at lowered rates, and provide preventive healthcare and medical treatment as well as health education.
In 2017, the medical clinics market accounted for the largest share of overall revenue being generated in Singapore by clinics. The largest concentration of clinics is located in the Central Region of Singapore due to the region’s connection to other cities and a larger population within those areas. The North Region is seen to have the highest number of clinics, with sections such as Woodlands and Yishun providing the largest number of clinics specialising in dental and family healthcare.
Providing primary care services, the clinics market is dominated by private general practitioner (GP) clinics, and includes large corporate groups as well as solo and medium-sized practices.
Ever since 2010, MOH has developed Community Health Centres that assist GPs with providing care for patients. From 2013 onwards, Family Medicine Clinics have been set up to assist patients with chronic disease management and provide more affordable access to healthcare.
Key Trends
COVID-19 infections on the rise again; more patients opt for booster vaccinations at clinics
At the beginning of April 2022, the number of COVID-19 patients reduced to 3,187 after the country witnessed a sudden surge in cases between January and March, amounting to 26,000 patients. Reflecting the success of the government in controlling the spread of the pandemic, many clinics noted a 20-25% drop in the number of patients being treated.
The decreased numbers led to many within the sector looking towards normalcy and relieving the pressure faced by many workers within the healthcare sector. This period of normalcy was short-lived as the number of cases once more began to increase. In May 2022, a large number of Omicron cases were reported, where 97% were local. Among Omicron-based cases, subvariant BA.2 and its lineages accounted for the majority, while 1 or 2% of the cases pointed to BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants.
A larger number of patients are suffering from acute respiratory illnesses due to many citizens returning to the country from overseas travel. Both Dr. Lee Joon Loong from Paddington Medical Clinic and Dr. Zhang Hao Tian from 1 Bishan Medical Clinic have reportedly stated that there was a 20-30% percent increase in coronavirus cases, but that this still remained under manageable condition. Doctors advised patients showing symptoms to take rapid antigen tests (RATs)at clinics instead of at home due to their greater accuracy and effective handling.
With numbers increasing once more, clinics around the city have seen higher demand for booster vaccinations. But this was not the only precautionary measure provided as many clinics encouraged the practice of basic hygiene and the wearing of a facemask to reduce the spread of the virus. As the virus continues to adapt, the main focus at mediclinics is to reduce the concentration of those being treated and eliminate risk factors in the process.
Demand for healthcare assistance on the rise; pressure on staff and clinics as COVID-19 patients increase in number
As COVID-19 numbers increase, added pressure falls on healthcare workers to meet the demands of patients. In February 2022, all Public Health Preparedness Clinics (PHPCs) had to implement longer shifts for medical staff, with operating hours expanding into weekends and weekday nights. Clinics also began hiring more staff in order to cope with increasing patient numbers and to create the support needed to maintain safety protocols among patients.
These initiatives taken by PHPCs were overseen by MOH and carried out in order to reduce the patient load at private clinics. It was also a means to encourage patients with symptoms to seek the assistance of primary care doctors instead of immediately opting for emergency units at hospitals. Larger medical institutions such as Raffles Medical have implemented longer worktimes for the 33 PHPC clinics being operated under the company. Increased manpower and resources have also been introduced in order to maintain the quality of healthcare being provided.
Doctors have voiced their concern on the need for existing healthcare workers to obtain adequate rest and their workload being eased in order to provide better services towards patients. Many doctors showing symptoms of the illness also require a period of rest and recovery, and as a result, professionals within the sector are taking all measures to increase the manpower and staff at clinics.
Manpower crunch being faced within the healthcare sector; mediclinics introduce self-service medical booths for patients
A rising population has resulted in the growing need for healthcare services and a noticeable lack of manpower within the sector. In order to address these requirements, the mediclinics sector has introduced Medbot booths that have enabled patients to conduct self-checkups.
WIthout the need for additional manpower, patients are guided with the help of a teleconsultation session with their doctor. Following this, the booth enables patients to check their temperature, blood pressure, blood oxygen level and body mass index by themselves, which can be done within the span of a few minutes.
These unmanned medical booths within clinics can also check a patient's height and weight. Edward Yoon, Chief Financial Officer at Republic Power, a local tech firm that assisted with the development of such booths, is reported to have stated that digital stethoscopes that can accurately measure heartbeats and heart murmurs would also be included. The main reason for these booths is to assist clinics with the large number of patients that need to be dealt with on a daily basis, while also allowing patients to reduce the time spent waiting in line at a clinic.
Key Statistics
- As of 2022, Singapore has 1,800 GP clinics and 23 polyclinics, providing 80% of primary care.
- Private general practitioner clinics increased from 2,025 to 2,410 between 2016 and 2021.
- The number of public polyclinics increased from 18 to 23 between 2016 and 2021.
Top Singapore MNC in Clinics
PARKWAY PANTAI LIMITED
Top Singapore Large Local Enterprise in Clinics
ASIAMEDIC LIMITED
AsiaMedic, founded in 1997, is a health screening and diagnostic healthcare provider. It has a team of clinical experts, and utilizes ultra-modern medical imaging technology. AsiaMedic's Health Navigator concept offers a strategic and personalized approach to preventing health risks through lifestyle changes via healthcare interventions, including customized health screening programmes and individualized health management solutions. Patients visit AsiaMedic for advanced medical imaging services such as PET/CT Scans. The Wellness Assessment Centre, Advanced Imaging Centre, Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Centre, Astique (an aesthetic clinic), and Complete Healthcare International (a medical clinic) are among its core businesses.
RAFFLES MEDICAL GROUP LTD
HEALTHWAY MEDICAL CORPORATION LIMITED
SINGAPORE MEDICAL GROUP LIMITED
EU YAN SANG INTEGRATIVE HEALTH PTE. LTD.
Incorporated in 2002, Eu Yan Sang Integrative Health is one of Asia's Chinese Medicine groups, which emphasizes a complete health and well-being approach. Premier TCM Centres, Wellness Clinics, General Clinics and Sessional Clinics provide a full spectrum of traditional Chinese medicine and therapies to promote successful healing and a revitalized sense of vigour. It has a large distribution network throughout China, Hong Kong, Macau, Malaysia and Australia, and its products are currently available in drugstores, pharmacies, medical halls, supermarkets, convenience stores, health clubs and spas. Prescribed herbal medication, acupuncture, cupping, tui na, needleless acupuncture, auriculotherapy, and gua sha are some of the treatments available.
THOMSON MEDICAL PTE. LTD.
FULLERTON HEALTHCARE GROUP PTE. LIMITED
RADLINK-ASIA PTE LTD
Established in 1999, RadLink-Asia is a private provider of diagnostic and molecular imaging services, with six diagnostic imaging centres, two PET centres and a cyclotron facility. It offers diagnostic imaging services, including X-ray, ultrasound, mammography, bone mineral densitometry, MRI, CT, and other advanced imaging methods and scans. RadLink-Asia also provides molecular imaging services, such as positron emission tomography, and runs a GMP-compliant radiopharmaceutical laboratory where it manufactures and distributes radioactive isotope tracers. These specialized tracers are delivered to large commercial and public hospitals, clinical research organizations and private PET facilities for use in PET scans. RadLink-Asia won the Asia-Pacific Diagnostic Provider of the Year Award from 2019 to 2021.
SINGAPORE PAINCARE HOLDINGS LIMITED
Incorporated in 2007, Singapore Paincare Center specializes in both chronic and acute pain consultation. It focuses on treating pain using specific injections and minimally invasive techniques. Its pain management methods bridge the gap between open surgery, which has higher risks and longer recovery times, and conservative physical therapy, which may not be as helpful right away. The medical group also worked with primary care clinicians to expand its pain management services to medical clinics throughout Singapore’s heartland. GP Medical & Paincare, Specialist Paincare, Specialist Advisory Panel, Physiotherapy, Center for Screening & Surgery, and Singapore Paincare TCM Wellness are some of the services offered by Singapore Paincare.
NTUC HEALTH CO-OPERATIVE LTD
Top Singapore SME in Clinics
AYUSH AYURVEDIC PTE. LTD.
Ayush Ayurvedic, which was founded in Singapore in 2008, is an Ayurvedic therapy and medicine clinic. It provides a wide range of Ayurvedic therapies. Every remedy and treatment plan provided by Ayush adheres to the highest standards of care, while offering natural and organic therapies for all ailments. Whether it is a massage therapy, medication regimen, nutrition prescription or general consultation, Ayush has established itself as the go-to site in Singapore for Ayurvedic therapy. Every Ayush employee has received their education at top institutions and Ayurveda colleges in India. Ayush offers legitimate Ayurvedic solutions in many locations around India and Malaysia.
FAMILY PODIATRY CENTRE PTE. LTD.
Family Podiatry Centre, which was established in 2005, conducts business in both Singapore and Malaysia. It is managed by a clinical director and a podiatrist, and offers extensive clinical examinations, diagnosis, and treatment of a wide range of lower limb disorders such as plantar fasciitis (heel discomfort), ingrown toenails, warts, flat feet, podiatric care and sports injuries. Podiatry relates to the treatment of lower limb disorders using both conservative and surgical methods, including cutting-edge technology like extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), custom orthotics CAD/CAM technology, taping, exercises and physiotherapy.
TMVC SINGAPORE PTE LTD
TMVC Singapore was established in 1998, and changed its name to International Medical Clinics (IMC) in 2012. IMC is a family practice with four branches in Singapore and operates a low-cost, patient-centred multi-specialty medical clinic. IMC provides medical advice based on solid evidence. All of its clinics feature medicine dispensaries to provide complete medical services. IMC clinics provide onsite parking, are near public transportation, and accessible by wheelchair, buggies and prams. IMC provides a Children's Clinic with internationally trained experts who specialize in both acute and chronic children's health conditions.
ONCOCARE MEDICAL PTE. LTD.
OncoCare Medical, which was incorporated in 2007, is presently one of Singapore's largest private oncology clinics. OncoCare Medical offers speedy access to quality CT scans, MRI imaging, PET/CT scans, radiotherapy facilities, and cutting-edge laboratory services for a full, integrated, specialized centre to care for cancer patients. OncoCare Medical provides the most effective treatments such as novel targeted medications, molecular markers and imaging, which stratify patients to the best therapies, with significant clinical outcomes while avoiding unnecessary toxicities.
PRUDENCE FAMILY CLINIC PTE. LTD.
Prudence Family Clinic was established in 2013 to provide individualized, high-quality care to the local and expatriate communities. There are only full-time doctors at Prudence Family Clinic, and they provide tailored and cost-effective treatment and healthcare advice for a wide range of diseases and conditions. The clinic has a special interest in men's health, HIV and STD management for men and women, and medical aesthetics, in addition to general medical services. To enhance the efficacy of its work, the clinic implements regional and local programmes in collaboration with NGOs, governments and the commercial sector. In partnership with other occupational doctors, Prudence Family Clinic also provides mental health care services and stress assessments.
FAITH MEDICAL GROUP PTE. LTD.
Faith Medical Group was incorporated in 1994, and its first clinic was set up in Marine Terrace. Faith Medical Group has a small network of eight clinics spread across Singapore, strategically positioned in the eastern, central, western and north-eastern districts, covering the island's most populated residential areas. Faith Medical Group services has evolved beyond acute and chronic illness treatment to preventative services such as medical aesthetics, lifestyle management, men's and women's health management, and health screenings. Faith Medical Group also provides corporate health services to a significant number of corporations.
BANYAN CLINIC PTE. LTD.
Banyan Clinic is a family medical clinic which was established in 2005. Headquartered in Singapore, the Banyan Clinic provides specialized and customized healthcare services to patients under the supervision of Dr. Elly and Dr. Fong, who are resident family physicians. Acute diseases (such as the management of fever and breathing difficulties requiring nebulisation), Chronic diseases (including the treatment of diabetes, hypertension, chronic heart disease, hypercholesterolemia and gout), Ultrasound, Preventative Medicine, Haj and Umrah Vaccinations, Vaccinations, and Acne Treatments are among the services it provides to ensure the health of its patients, both young and old.
I-HEALTH MEDICAL CLINIC PTE. LTD.
I-Health Medical Clinic was incorporated in 2018. The clinic provides medical treatment and care for acute and chronic illnesses, and also focuses on men's and women's health problems. Prostate examination, erectile dysfunction, hair loss management for men, contraception and family planning, and menopausal management and Pap smear for women are among the services it provides. I-Health Medical Clinic is CHAS accredited, which allows users to take advantage of the Community Health Support Scheme (CHAS), Merdeka Generation (MG), and Pioneer Generation (PG) subsidies through the clinic.
UNITED VISION HOLDINGS PTE. LTD.
Healthmark Clinics was established in 2004 by a group of family-oriented physicians who are committed to providing personal, holistic and preventive treatment to patients. It has six functioning clinics located around Singapore. United Vision Holdings' serve as Healthmark’s headquarters, handling all its administrative and accounting affairs. Healthmark Clinics’ acute care covers treating and managing ailments such as the common cold and flu, aches and pains, gastrointestinal discomfort, minor cuts and wounds, and travel vaccinations, as well as medical assistance for children, women and men. Healthmark Clinics also offer services to private and corporate consumers.
VITACARE PTE. LTD.
VitaCare was incorporated in 2013 and provides expert medical services. It offers medical care for babies and children, as well as adult medical care for women and men. These include Chronic disease management, Geriatric health, Skin and acne conditions, Arthritis pain management, Menstruation problems, Breast and cervical examination/Pap smear, and Comprehensive STD screening, among other services. VitaCare assists patients in understanding their coverage, identifying potential savings opportunities, and facilitating communication between physicians and payers. It also facilitates the filling of prescriptions, mostly through its network of third-party pharmacies.
Top Singapore Fastest-Growing Companies in Clinic Sector
PHOENIX MEDICAL GROUP PTE. LTD.
Incorporated in 2011, Phoenix Medical Group offers an array of services in Singapore. Phoenix Medical operates four conveniently located clinics – at Seletar, Hillview, Paya Lebar and Novena – which serve a diverse range of patients, offering treatment for various illnesses. Phoenix Medical provides services such as Childhood Immunization, Chronic Disease Management, Statutory Check Up, Health Screening, Aesthetics, Men's and Women's Health Check Up and General Services. It also offers corporate solutions. Phoenix Medical clinics were accredited by the MOH in 2016 to administer the CHAS and Pioneer Generation programmes and outpatient MediSave claims.
ALPHA INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S SPECIALISTS (SINGAPORE) PTE. LTD.
THOMSON WELLTH COMPANY PTE. LTD.
Thomson Wellth Company, incorporated in 2013, is a medical and aesthetic clinic that focuses on patients' health and wellness. Thomson Wellth offers medical health check-ups and therapies to manage and enhance health at any age. In addition to medical health check-ups, it also offers sports injury rehabilitation and beauty treatments. The company’s health screening packages and medical check-ups are customized according to the patient’s gender identity, age and medical history. Thomson Wellth Company has been authorized by the Health Promotion Board to provide corporate consultations on workplace health promotion programmes.
PRECIOUS SPECIALIST CENTRE PTE. LTD.
Precious Medical Centre, established in 2017, is a member of the Entrust Healthcare group. It offers one-stop solutions from primary care and health screening to specialist services and dentistry for men, women and corporations. Precious Medical Centre has X-Ray and imaging equipment for CT, MRI and mammography. The clinic also offers a day surgery centre with general surgery and endoscopy theatres. The organization operates nine Pacific Activity Centres across the island, which provide assistance to seniors and their families. In 2021, Precious Medical Centre was honoured as the Dental Medical Centre of the Year in the Asia Pacific at the Global Health Awards.
DTAP CLINICS PTE. LTD.
S AESTHETICS CLINIC PTE. LTD.
SEACARE MARITIME MEDICAL CENTRE PTE LTD
Established in 1997, Seacare Maritime Medical Centre specializes in serving the needs of maritime patients. The medical centre’s services include consultation in the office and on the ship; medical referral; crew hospitalization management; imaging services such as X-ray, ultrasound, and mammogram; dental care; and pre-employment medical examination, alcohol and drug testing. In addition, it assists with medical evacuation of sick crew members from the ship to shore and medical repatriation. Through a collaboration with the district central hospital, Seacare Maritime also provides medical services to overseas seafarers who require medical attention in Shanghai. Seacare Maritime operates clinics in Indonesia and the Philippines.
BETHESDA MEDICAL CENTRE PTE LTD
Bethesda Medical Centre was incorporated in 1995. Bethesda Medical was established as a multi-doctor comprehensive medical and screening centre with modern equipment. It provides laboratory services, diagnostic radiography (X-ray, mammography, ultrasound), hearing aid audiometry, eye assessment, lung function, cardiac evaluation, bone sonometry, physiotherapy, nurse practitioner, food counselling services, and pharmacy. In 2020, responding to the Ministry of Health (MOH) requirements as part of COVID measures, Bethesda established a medical centre for migrant workers at Kallang Recreation Centre, to cater to migrant employees' medical and COVID testing needs.
THE RESILIENZ CLINIC PTE. LTD.
Established in 2014, Resilienz is a mental wellbeing clinic that offers a comprehensive and tailored approach to the evaluation and treatment of psychological problems relating to children, adolescents, adults and the elderly. It treats a wide spectrum of mental health issues such as depression, sorrow, anxiety, stress-related diseases, obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), childhood behavioural and emotional disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and dementia. Resilienz also offers psychiatric evaluations and expert opinions in matters involving lasting powers of attorney, mental capacity, and other medico-legal issues.
CRAWFURD MEDICAL CENTRE PTE. LTD.
Incorporated in 2014, Crawfurd Medical Centre is a one-stop primary healthcare facility that offers a variety of health services such as health screening, diagnostic modalities, corporate health, podiatry, seafarers' examination, sexual health (men and women), and a weight loss programme. The centre is headquartered in Singapore. Crawfurd Medical Centre also keeps in touch with former patients, as well as the community, by providing ongoing healthcare and guidance. Crawfurd Medical Centre offers a variety of health screening options such as ultrasound, treadmill, DEXA and mammogram.
