Cancer treatment in Singapore is well-known for its high quality and innovative medical
technologies. However, these treatments come at a substantial expense. It is critical for
people seeking treatment in Singapore to understand the financial consequences. This
article explores the types of cancer treatments available in Singapore, their associated
costs, and the importance of health insurance in managing these expenses.
Treatment Options for Cancer
Singapore offers a comprehensive range of cancer treatments, including:
1. Surgery
Tumors and malignant tissues are commonly removed using surgical treatments. The cost
of surgery varies according to the intricacy of the treatment and the hospital used. On
average, surgery might cost between SGD 20,000 and SGD 50,000.
2. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy includes the use of chemicals to kill cancer cells. The cost of chemotherapy
varies according to the drugs u
sed and the number of treatment cycles required. Chemotherapy typically costs between
SGD 1,000 and SGD 3,000 per session, with a total treatment cost between SGD 10,000 to
SGD 30,000.
3. Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy use high-energy radiation to eliminate cancer cells. The cost of radiation
therapy varies according to the type and duration of treatment. A full course of radiation
therapy typically costs between SGD 10,000 and SGD 25,000.
4. Targeted Therapy
Drugs used in targeted therapy specifically target cancer cells while having minimal
influence on normal cells. These therapies can be costly, ranging between SGD 5,000 and
SGD 15,000 each month, depending on the type of cancer and the medications utilized.
5. Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy strengthens the body's immune system to combat cancer. Immunotherapy
can be costly, ranging from SGD 10,000 to SGD 20,000 per month, depending on the
treatment regimen and cancer type.
6. Stem Cell Transplantation
Stem cell transplants used to treat blood diseases such as leukemia are costly. The
procedure can cost between SGD 150,000 and SGD 300,000, depending on its intricacy and
whether a donor is used.
Additional Costs
Aside from core treatment expenditures, patients should budget for diagnostic testing,
hospital stays, follow-up appointments, and supporting care. These can total several
thousand dollars, raising the overall cost of cancer therapy.
The Role of Health Insurance
Given the high costs of cancer treatment in Singapore, having comprehensive health
insurance is essential. Health insurance can help to reduce out-of-pocket spending and give
financial security during difficult times. Here are the major advantages of health insurance
in managing cancer treatment costs:
Coverage for Various Treatments
Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy are all common cancer
therapies covered by health insurance programs. This ensures that patients can get vital
therapies without worrying about the cost.
Access to Advanced Treatments
Patients with health insurance can receive modern treatments such as immunotherapy and
stem cell transplants, which would otherwise be prohibitively expensive. Insurance plans
frequently cover a large percentage of these high-cost procedures, making them more
affordable.
Financial Protection
Health insurance is a safety net that protects patients and their families from financial
hardship. By paying a large percentage of treatment costs, insurance helps patients to
concentrate on their recovery rather than their medical expenditures.
Additional Benefits
Many health insurance plans provide additional benefits like diagnostic tests,
hospitalization, and follow-up visits. These features ensure that patients receive complete
care throughout their treatment journey.
Cancer treatments in Singapore are among the best in the world, but they come at a high
cost. Considering these costs and the role of health insurance in controlling them is critical
for anyone considering receiving treatment in Singapore. Health insurance provides financial
security and access to vital treatments, ensuring that patients obtain the finest care
available without having to worry about money.
